Electra has participated in the UK’s first megawatt Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) charger project, developed in partnership with Islington Council and supported by government funding from the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero and Innovate UK.
The project explores how electric vehicle fleets can become more than just transportation tools, offering potential financial and environmental benefits for businesses and councils. By enabling fleets to charge during off-peak hours and sell unused energy back to the grid during peak demand, the technology presents an innovative approach to cost management and energy efficiency.
Electra highlighted the technical nuances of the project, particularly focusing on battery management. The company explained that while their current trucks cannot charge at 1 MW, they are compatible with the V2G system. A critical aspect of maintaining battery health involves periodic calibration, a process where the battery is discharged to around 20%, allowing the battery management system to realign and balance cell voltages, ultimately improving long-term performance and durability.
The environmental implications are significant. By feeding surplus energy back to the grid, the technology supports renewable energy integration, reduces dependency on fossil fuels, and helps stabilise grid demand. This approach represents a forward-thinking method of decarbonising both transportation and energy systems.
Funded by the V2X Innovation Programme, the project underscores the potential of collaborative innovation in creating smarter, more sustainable technological solutions. Electra views this as an important step in helping businesses and councils harness the full potential of their electric fleets while supporting broader sustainability goals.
