The E-STOR system, designed by Connected Energy, stores energy in batteries taken from end-of-life Renault electric vehicles, which are said still have considerable capacity despite being beyond their usable on-road lifespan.

This could enable renewably-sourced energy, produced using variable-output sources such as solar panels or wind turbines, to be stored for later use, or as a method of stabilising demand on the grid.

As it can also support a rapid charger, Renault said it could be used in areas where electric supply would only allow for slow charging, the battery topping up steadily when it’s not in use then releasing that energy quickly when it’s connected to a vehicle.

Matthew Lumsden, Managing Director, Connected Energy, said: “E-STOR will enable the more cost-effective roll-out of electric vehicles in commercial and industrial settings, thus increasing the overall sustainability of this clean form of transport. With Renault we have secured the supply of second life batteries for future E-STOR installations.”

Eric Feunteun, Electric Vehicle Program Director, Renault, added: “Through E-STOR, EV owners can charge their car at reduced costs with electricity that is less carbon-dependent. It makes driving an EV a smart and even more sustainable transportation solution. With this energy management technology, EVs and their batteries become an asset for the grid rather than create overload.”