Energy firm EDF has secured its first Distribution System Operator flexibility contracts that could see its customers lower their bills for EV charging.

Customers with Pod Point home chargers will be paid for allowing EDF to utilise their EV to manage the grid in the UK Power Networks DSO region

As part of a trial with UK Power Networks DSO, customers with Pod Point home EV chargers will be paid for allowing EDF to utilise their EV to manage local network constraints in the UK Power Networks DSO region.

Using EDF’s virtual power plant, PowerShift, EDF will automatically optimise the energy usage of customer’s EV chargers in response to flexibility demands from UK Power Networks DSO.

The trial paves the way for EV customers to not only lower their energy bills through payments for participating, but also contribute to building a smarter, more sustainable energy grid in the UK.

PowerShift is designed to unlock the optimal value of flexibility from both grid-scale and behind-the-meter assets, combining artificial intelligence, real-time data analytics, and sophisticated algorithms. This capability allows EDF to continuously monitor and optimise flexible assets ensuring swift adjustments to enhance performance and capture emerging opportunities in the dynamic energy landscape.

By leveraging PowerShift, Pod Point chargers can drive performance and unlock new revenue avenues while contributing to a more resilient energy grid.

Alex Howard, head of flexibility markets at UK Power Networks DSO, said: “We’re delighted to see EDF, one of Britain’s biggest energy suppliers, and their customers participate. Our flexibility procurement process is designed to be open and fair, ensuring all participants can contribute to grid reliability.”

Stuart Fenner, director of wholesale market services commercial at EDF, said: “We share UK Power Networks DSO’s vision for a more competitive and efficient flexibility market, and we’re excited to be part of a process that delivers value to customers and the grid alike.”

By providing flexible energy solutions, EDF is enhancing the grid’s ability to manage fluctuations in supply and demand, ensuring its reliability while supporting the UK’s net zero emissions goals. These flexibility contracts enable EDF to play a vital role in advancing the country’s sustainable energy future.