EDF has announced a strategic partnership with Hypervolt, a leading EV charge point manufacturer and software provider, to help balance the grid.

The initiative will use Hypervolt EV chargers to support the grid

Using EDF Wholesale Market Services’ PowerShift technology, the collaboration will explore leveraging the capability of Hypervolt’s UltraGrid software to enable a frequency response service from EVs.

Working with the National Electricity System Operator (NESO), this initiative will use Hypervolt EV chargers to support the grid at times where it is facing challenges maintaining the required frequency.

The offer aligns with proposals in NESO’s Clean Power 2030 Report that highlight the need for quicker responses to maintain a system frequency close to 50Hz and increasing the volume of these services through frequency markets.

Using its PowerShift virtual power plant capability, EDF will automatically adjust the energy usage of Hypervolt EV chargers to help balance the grid during periods of peak demand or excess renewable energy supply. By leveraging real-time grid conditions, EDF will help customers save on electricity costs, reduce their carbon footprint and maximise the use of renewable energy sources.

Existing and future Hypervolt EV charger owners will also benefit from access to a bespoke EDF tariff that automates smart charging for EVs and delivers EDF’s best-value offer for drivers frequently charging.

Customers who sign up to the tariff always remain in control of their charging preferences, including the level of charge in the car and what time of day they need their EV to be charged. Charging will be managed automatically, requiring no manual intervention and savings will be shown on the EDF app.

Hypervolt charger owners who are not on EDF supply can also opt in to benefit from flexibility savings through PowerShift. This solution unlocks the optimal flexibility value from both grid-scale and behind-the-meter assets, with the use of artificial intelligence, real-time data analytics and sophisticated algorithms.

Stuart Fenner, wholesale market services commercial director at EDF, said: “Our partnership with Hypervolt highlights EDF Wholesale Market Services’ commitment to integrating EV solutions into our award-winning PowerShift solution, leveraging our unique capability to create value in all available markets. We look forward to helping more customers optimise their energy usage and actively engaging in the transition towards a low-carbon future.”

Flavian Alexandru, founder and CEO of Hypervolt, added: “We are thrilled to partner with EDF to expand our innovative smart tariff offerings. Together, we aim to deliver unmatched affordability, quality, and user experience, driving forward the energy transition.”