Fleet operators can future-proof their EV infrastructure by integrating battery storage with on-site renewables and full-site optimisation, a new report claims.

As the UK accelerates its transition to electric vehicles, grid connections remain one of the prime obstacles for fleet operators, as limited network capacity and high infrastructure upgrade costs slow down progress.

These issues are especially problematic for commercial fleet operators, which represent a high share of road transport emissions. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), current grid processes mean truck and van operators may wait up to 15 years for depot charging connections.

By incorporating a battery-backed charging infrastructure, EV fleet managers can reduce grid dependency, unlock cost efficiencies and drive vehicle decarbonisation, according to the Solving Grid Connection Challenges with Battery Solutions white paper from GridBeyond.

Integrating battery storage with on-site renewables and full-site optimisation enables fleets to shift charging to off-peak periods avoiding high price periods and the need for grid reinforcement.

For fleet owners and operators, integrating EVs into their operations presents not only environmental and operational benefits but also significant financial opportunities, especially when incorporating energy storage system and participating in demand response programmes.

Such schemes allow EV fleet owners to earn incentives from grid operators by reducing electricity usage during peak times or for supplying power back to the grid from their EV batteries. By shifting charging times to hours when electricity is cheaper, fleet operators can significantly reduce their energy costs. Additionally, by selling excess stored energy back to the grid during high demand periods, fleets can create a new revenue stream, enhancing overall profitability and reducing the total cost of ownership for their fleets.

“Grid infrastructure constraints are now one of the biggest barriers to EV fleet rollouts in the UK,” said Michael Phelan, CEO of GridBeyond. “Battery solutions, combined with smart charging and flexibility services, can not only solve these challenges but also deliver long-term operational and financial benefits.”

To access GridBeyond’s white paper, please click here.