Grid & Energy

A UK homeowner with rooftop solar, a Tesla Powerwall and an electric vehicle reported on the r/Powerwall subreddit that their system was exporting solar electricity to the grid while the EV charged below its expected rate, raising questions about how the solar array, battery, charger and grid connection interact. The owner concluded that solar generation was reducing household load in an unexpected way, though the exact cause remained unclear after discussion with other users. The case highlights how small charging mismatches in multi-asset home energy systems can affect export income and overall energy bills.

Why it matters: For charge point operators and installers working on domestic smart charging, the interaction between home batteries, solar inverters and EV chargers can create unintended export behaviour that erodes the financial case for solar and storage. Understanding these edge cases is essential when designing or commissioning integrated home energy systems that promise optimised self-consumption and export revenue.

China's 15th Five Year Plan (2026 to 2030) for power system construction sets a goal of building a nationwide charging infrastructure network capable of supporting more than 110 million electric vehicles by the end of the decade. The plan, discussed by experts from Xiamen University and the China Electricity Council in the National Business Daily, also targets 50 percent nonfossil energy in total electricity generation by 2030 and consumption of more than 2.8 billion kilowatts of new energy. The development of electricity spot, capacity and ancillary services markets is expected to accelerate during this period.

Why it matters: The 110 million EV target signals massive public charging infrastructure procurement and grid integration work across China over the next five years. Accelerated electricity market development may reshape how CPOs price and operate charging services, with time and location based pricing becoming more prominent.

A NSW Legislative Assembly Committee on Transport and Infrastructure report, released on Thursday, cautions that allowing the state's three major electricity distributors (Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy and Essential Energy) to lead the EV charging rollout risks creating a monopoly that would raise power bills for all consumers, not just EV owners. The committee heard from dozens of witnesses across five hearings, with RACQ and charger company EVSE both warning that distributor dominance would stifle competition, deter private investment and distort the market.

Why it matters: The findings signal potential regulatory barriers to utility ownership of charging assets in New South Wales, shaping procurement strategies for CPOs and infrastructure investors. If adopted, the recommendations could preserve a competitive market for independent charge point operators and equipment suppliers across Australia's most populous state.

UL Standards & Engagement released UL 1741 Supplement SC in May 2026, covering AC bidirectional electric vehicle supply equipment for EVs with SAE J3072 bidirectional onboard inverters. The standard addresses AC vehicle to grid systems, where inverter functions sit onboard the EV, and is expected to support interoperability and catalyse a low cost, scalable V2G AC market. Utilities in California, Maryland, New York, Massachusetts and Connecticut have clarified treatment for V2G DC systems, with AC applications now gaining regulatory attention.

Why it matters: Charge point operators and fleet managers can now plan AC V2G deployments with clearer technical requirements, reducing reliance on proprietary hardware from individual automakers. The standard paves the way for utility interconnection agreements and revenue opportunities from grid services, expanding the business case for bidirectional charging infrastructure.

UK battery storage and EV charging firm Zenobē has bought Bavaria based SDP Energie, announced 27 July, gaining six transmission level battery projects totalling 1.75GW in Germany and access to a broader 4GW development pipeline. The deal combines SDP's local regulatory and grid knowledge with Zenobē's UK track record in large scale BESS, including grid forming services at Scottish sites and the 200MW/800MWh Coalburn project, the UK's first 4 hour battery system.

Why it matters: The acquisition signals cross border consolidation in utility scale storage, relevant to EV charging operators because transmission BESS can stabilise grids under growing electrification load and because Zenobē operates in both sectors. Germany's shift towards 4 hour projects and wholesale trading mirrors trends that will shape grid capacity available for depot and corridor charging infrastructure.

Tunisia's National Agency for Energy Management and Tunisie Autoroutes have begun their first solar power project at Oued Zarga station in Béja governorate, following a partnership signed on 13 July. The initial installation will cover 5 to 6 hectares and aims to meet a significant share of the motorway operator's electricity needs, with plans to replicate the model across other motorway sites. The partnership also includes developing a national network of electric vehicle charging stations along Tunisia's motorways.

Why it matters: The project signals Tunisia's commitment to building EV charging infrastructure on its motorway network, creating procurement opportunities for charging equipment suppliers and installation contractors. The combination of solar generation and charging stations offers a template for integrated renewable energy and EV infrastructure deployment across North Africa.

Hyundai Motor Group launched AllDayEnergy on 24 July 2026, a Vehicle to Everything energy services brand enabling compatible Kia and Hyundai electric vehicles to charge when electricity is cheap and sell stored power back to the grid. The service begins rolling out in the United Kingdom through the Kia App in the second half of 2026. AllDayEnergy is a software layer built on bidirectional charging hardware in E-GMP platform vehicles including the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6, Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9, offering three tiers starting with Smart Charging (V1G) that adjusts charging timing based on grid load and electricity prices using a standard smart wallbox.

Why it matters: The platform creates new demand for smart charging infrastructure and grid integration services, positioning vehicle batteries as distributed energy assets that require managed charging networks. For CPOs and installers, it signals growing OEM involvement in energy management software that sits between the vehicle and charging hardware, potentially reshaping procurement specifications for fleet and workplace installations.

Former Representative Carlos Isagani Zarate has highlighted that electric vehicles in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao, offer limited emissions reductions because the regional grid relies heavily on coal-fired plants including Therma South Inc. in Davao City and San Miguel Power in Davao del Sur. He argues that the country is merely relocating emissions from vehicle exhausts to power plant smokestacks rather than eliminating them, and calls for the EV transition to drive broader energy policy reform.

Why it matters: For charging infrastructure developers in the Philippines, grid composition directly affects the environmental value proposition of their networks. The debate may influence future policy incentives and the business case for pairing charging sites with on-site renewable generation.

Eversource and National Grid are integrating vehicle to grid capable EVs into their ConnectedSolutions demand flexibility programme in Massachusetts, working with EnergyHub, Sunrun's grid services arm, and The Mobility House. The programme currently orchestrates more than 280,000 distributed energy resources and over 800MW of flexible capacity across five US states, using thermostats, battery storage, and commercial and industrial resources to reduce grid strain. Customers with qualifying V2G devices will receive incentives for adjusting usage patterns during peak demand periods.

Why it matters: The integration of V2G into an established 800MW demand response programme signals growing utility confidence in bidirectional charging as a grid asset, potentially creating new revenue streams for fleet operators and expanding the business case for V2G capable charging infrastructure. For CPOs and installers, this validates investment in bidirectional hardware and positions V2G as a scalable solution beyond pilot projects.

The Australian federal government's Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has announced AU$30 million (US$21 million) in grants across 14 projects under its Grid Enhancing Technologies Grant Program, running from 2025 to 2026 through to 2028 to 2029. Vehicle to grid charging and smart EV charging incentives are among the funded use cases, with individual grants of up to AU$5 million per project available to Australian businesses, universities, research organisations and government bodies. The 14 funded projects span six states and territories, including Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.

Why it matters: The programme creates procurement opportunities for charge point operators and technology suppliers capable of delivering scalable V2G and smart charging solutions that support grid stability and renewable energy integration. Projects must demonstrate broader applicability across the electricity network, signalling potential for follow on commercial deployments beyond the trial phase.

A growing number of UK electric vehicle drivers are using smart chargers paired with automated tariffs to reduce charging costs without manual intervention. Intelligent Octopus Go, described as the UK's most popular EV tariff, offers a guaranteed overnight rate of 8p per kWh and automatically schedules charging when energy is cheapest. The approach eliminates the need for drivers to manually set car timers each night.

Why it matters: Automated smart charging tariffs are reshaping residential EV charging behaviour and may influence procurement specifications for home charger installations. CPOs and installers should understand how tariff integration affects hardware compatibility requirements and customer expectations for seamless energy management.

General Motors has introduced a home energy management system designed to reduce electricity bills for EV owners by optimising charging times. The platform integrates with GM electric vehicles to schedule charging during off-peak hours when energy rates are lower. The initiative forms part of GM's broader strategy to make EV ownership more economical and accelerate adoption across the United States.

Why it matters: Automaker-led demand management tools can shift residential charging load away from peak periods, potentially reducing grid strain and the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. For charge point operators and energy suppliers, such platforms signal growing competition in the home energy services market and the importance of time-of-use tariffs in the EV ecosystem.

CATL has signed a memorandum of understanding with Dutch energy company Alfen to deploy 5 GWh of its Tener Sodium energy storage systems across Europe, with deployments scheduled to begin in 2027. The batteries are rated for 15,000 cycles and a 25 to 30 year service life, positioning sodium-ion technology as a grid storage solution based on longevity rather than energy density. Alfen, which has more than 1 GWh of storage installed across Europe and has bought lithium-ion cells from CATL since 2023, said the move aims to optimise cost structures and improve resilience against lithium price volatility.

Why it matters: This marks one of the largest sodium-ion commitments in Europe and signals a potential shift in grid storage procurement away from lithium-ion, driven by supply chain resilience and cost stability. For CPOs and storage integrators, the 25 to 30 year lifespan claim could reshape total cost of ownership calculations for stationary applications that support EV charging infrastructure.

Research from the AHEAD project confirms that even moderate electric vehicle penetration levels can cause thermal overloads, voltage deviations and operational uncertainty in distribution networks when charging is uncoordinated. The study found that while home charging remains dominant, workplace, public parking and fast-charging stations show different patterns in predictability and flexibility, shaped by user preferences, mobility needs, infrastructure availability, electricity prices and weather conditions.

Why it matters: Distribution system operators and charge point operators must plan infrastructure deployment with coordination strategies in mind, as unmanaged charging at moderate penetration levels already risks network stress. Understanding the distinct charging patterns across home, workplace and public sites helps inform site selection and load management approaches for resilient grid integration.

A widely shared analysis claims the United States has experienced at least one major power outage every month in 2026, with 450,000 customers losing supply in Pennsylvania in April, over 130,000 in Texas in recent weeks, and 210,000 outage events across 46 states in March alone. Around 70 per cent of outages stem from severe weather, while 20 per cent result from equipment failure, much of it dating to the 1960s and 1970s. The pattern is driving homeowners toward solar and battery systems to maintain power during grid failures.

Why it matters: Frequent grid outages accelerate residential demand for behind the meter storage and solar, expanding the addressable market for home EV chargers paired with backup batteries. Procurement teams and charge point operators planning depot or fleet infrastructure may also need to budget for on site generation or storage to guarantee uptime during monthly grid interruptions.

Aditya Birla Renewables has agreed to acquire Sprng Energy, according to Mercom Capital Group's latest funding and M&A roundup. The transaction involves renewable energy assets in India, though financial terms were not disclosed in the available excerpt. The deal forms part of broader consolidation activity tracked by Mercom in the clean energy sector.

Why it matters: Large renewables M&A in India can reshape the competitive landscape for EV charging infrastructure, as energy developers often bundle charging networks with solar and wind portfolios to serve fleet and commercial customers.

The global second-life battery market is projected to reach USD 46.9 billion, according to a GlobeNewswire report. The forecast reflects growing commercial interest in repurposing end-of-life EV batteries for stationary energy storage and other applications. No timeline for the valuation was specified in the available excerpt.

Why it matters: Second-life battery systems offer CPOs and site developers a lower-cost energy storage option to support grid services, demand management and renewable integration at charging hubs. The market's expansion signals maturing supply chains and financing structures around battery reuse, which can improve project economics for large-scale charging infrastructure.

Toyota Industries has successfully verified a bidirectional on-board charger that enables AC power supply from battery electric vehicles to grids, based on ISO standards. The technology establishes a foundation for Vehicle to Grid (V2G) adoption, allowing BEVs to discharge power back to the electrical grid.

Why it matters: V2G capability transforms EVs into distributed energy resources, creating new revenue streams for fleet operators and requiring grid operators to integrate bidirectional charging infrastructure into procurement specifications. The ISO-compliant approach signals potential standardisation that could accelerate V2G deployment across charging networks.

TotalEnergies has secured $502 million in financing for battery storage projects totalling 789MW in Germany. The funding will support the development of grid scale energy storage infrastructure across multiple sites in the country. The deal was reported via Yahoo Finance through Google News.

Why it matters: This substantial investment signals growing institutional confidence in utility scale battery storage as a procurement category, and the 789MW pipeline will create significant EPC and equipment supply opportunities in the German market over the coming construction phases.

European efforts are progressing on integrating EV charging infrastructure with broader energy systems to enable effective vehicle to grid (V2G) deployment. The development focuses on optimising how electric vehicles interact with the grid, combining charging hardware, software and energy management. The story was reported by Bioengineer.org.

Why it matters: For CPOs and charging infrastructure developers, the push toward integrated V2G systems signals that future procurement and network design will need to account for bidirectional energy flows and grid services, potentially opening new revenue streams but also requiring more complex technical specifications.

Berlin deeptech startup NextGO Epi has closed a 2 million euro pre-seed round led by Vireo Ventures, with participation from Ultratech Capital Partners, IBB Ventures and angel investor Boris Habets. The 2025 spin-off from the Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung is Europe's only producer of gallium oxide epitaxial wafers, materials that underpin next-generation power electronics. The company says its technology can cut electric vehicle charging times from 60 minutes to 10 minutes while reducing manufacturing costs.

Why it matters: Gallium oxide semiconductors promise step-change improvements in charging speed and cost, directly affecting the economics and user experience of public charging infrastructure. CPOs and equipment makers will watch whether NextGO Epi can deliver industrial volumes that make sub-15-minute top-ups commercially viable across networks.

Grid software firm WeaveGrid has partnered with GM Energy to enrol eligible General Motors electric vehicle drivers in managed charging and vehicle-to-grid programmes across the United States. More than 250,000 bidirectional-capable GM EVs are currently on US roads, and owners with GM Energy's vehicle-to-home systems and proper grid interconnection can participate in distribution-level orchestration, bidirectional charging and residential energy storage programmes through WeaveGrid's DISCO platform. The collaboration supports Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac EV owners and builds on GM's vehicle-to-grid push launched in June 2026.

Why it matters: The partnership creates a large addressable market for utilities procuring managed charging and V2G services, with a quarter of a million eligible vehicles already deployed. For charge point operators and energy service providers, the DISCO platform integration signals growing competition in grid-services aggregation and the need to align with OEM ecosystems.

Peter Burke, EV Infrastructure Delivery at the NRMA, told the Autel EV Innovation Seminar 2026 that grid access has become the primary constraint for charging networks, even as newer electric vehicles demand higher charging speeds and volumes. Burke noted that vehicles three to four years ago required less capacity than current models, yet grid limitations mean operators cannot simply install larger chargers. He advised that each site must be designed around demand patterns, peaks, troughs and available grid capacity rather than pursuing maximum charger output.

Why it matters: Fleet and depot planners should prioritise assessing site power capacity before specifying charger numbers or speeds, as grid constraints now dictate what infrastructure is feasible. Public charging operators face the same challenge, requiring site designs tailored to local grid availability rather than standardised high power installations.

The Oregon Public Utility Commission voted unanimously on 7 July to impose a 29.7% electricity rate increase on customers using more than 20 megawatts, including data centres, cryptocurrency operations and large industrial sites served by Portland General Electric. The hike, effective 8 July under Oregon's 2025 POWER Act, shifts grid costs away from PGE's 963,000 residential customers, whose typical monthly bills are expected to fall by 1.3% or around $1.91.

Why it matters: The ruling sets a US precedent for separating high demand users into distinct tariff classes, a model that could influence how utilities price power for EV charging hubs and depot operators if load thresholds expand. Procurement teams watching grid cost allocation may see similar rate structures emerge in other states, affecting long term charging infrastructure business cases.

A prominent Chinese battery industry figure has advocated for a strategic pivot to sodium-based battery technology to reduce China's 75 per cent reliance on imported lithium. The call highlights supply chain vulnerabilities in the battery sector, which underpins electric vehicle production and charging infrastructure development.

Why it matters: Sodium battery adoption could reshape EV charging infrastructure requirements and procurement strategies, as different battery chemistries may demand modified charging protocols. For CPOs and infrastructure developers, a shift away from lithium-dependent batteries could alter equipment specifications and long-term investment planning in charging networks.

Electric vehicles in China are being used as emergency power supplies in flood-affected areas, demonstrating vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities in disaster response scenarios. The practice highlights how EVs can function as mobile energy storage units during infrastructure disruptions. This application has emerged as authorities and residents respond to flooding events across the country.

Why it matters: For charging point operators and infrastructure planners, this demonstrates the value proposition of bidirectional charging capabilities in resilience planning. The use case strengthens the business case for V2G-enabled charging infrastructure, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters or grid instability.

California startup UNIGRID has installed its Na+Casa residential battery in European homes, with US rollout expected by the end of 2026 pending North American certification. The 9.25 kilowatt hour sodium-ion system is designed for a 25 year lifespan and eliminates thermal propagation risk, positioning it as an alternative to lithium-ion storage for solar-paired homes.

Why it matters: Sodium-ion chemistry sidesteps lithium, cobalt and nickel supply chains while promising longer asset life and lower fire risk, factors that could reshape procurement decisions for residential storage installers and utilities exploring distributed energy resources.

Cherry Creek School District in Colorado has deployed six electric school buses that use bi-directional charging to return stored energy to the local power grid during peak evening demand. Highland Electric Fleets designed the system to discharge excess battery capacity after school runs, then recharge overnight when demand is lowest. The buses and depot facility are funded by a $2.4 million rebate collected by Highland Electric Fleets.

Why it matters: The project demonstrates vehicle to grid technology at scale in the school transport sector, offering a revenue model for fleet operators and showing how depot charging infrastructure can support grid stability while reducing operational costs.

Peak Energy will invest $71 million in a 183,000 square foot manufacturing facility at Sacramento's Metro Air Park, creating 239 jobs and producing 4 GWh of grid scale sodium-ion energy storage systems annually from Q1 2027. The company has secured over 6 GWh in customer commitments and received a $10.5 million CalCompetes tax credit awarded in May 2026. Peak Energy plans to commercialise the first fully passive grid scale energy storage system using sodium-ion technology.

Why it matters: The facility signals growing US domestic battery manufacturing capacity beyond lithium-ion, with sodium-ion systems potentially offering lower costs for grid operators and EV charging sites requiring energy storage to manage demand peaks. Procurement teams should monitor sodium-ion pricing and performance as an alternative to lithium-ion for stationary storage applications supporting charging infrastructure.

Nissan has partnered with Easelink to launch the UK's first automated AC vehicle to grid operation, using Matrix Charging technology. The system removes the need for driver intervention and aims to maximise the time electric vehicles remain connected to the grid.

Why it matters: Automated charging eliminates manual plug in steps, potentially increasing grid service revenue for fleet operators and CPOs by keeping vehicles connected longer. The AC approach may offer lower infrastructure costs than DC alternatives for depot and workplace installations.

An article in The Hans India features Dr C S R Raju discussing the role of battery energy storage systems (BESS) and virtual power plants in shaping India's energy landscape. The piece highlights how these technologies can support grid stability and renewable energy integration across the country.

Why it matters: India's push toward BESS and virtual power plants signals growing procurement opportunities for energy storage developers and EV charging operators seeking to participate in grid services or co locate storage with charging infrastructure.

Axle Energy, a British energy flexibility platform that aggregates EV chargers, batteries and heat pumps for grid balancing, has closed a €21 million Series A led by Energize Capital, with Accel, Picus Capital and Eka Ventures participating. The company will use the funds to expand across the UK and international markets, connecting more distributed energy assets and deepening partnerships with OEMs, utilities and fleet operators. CEO Karl Bach said virtual power plants can bring flexible capacity online in weeks rather than years, reducing reliance on fossil fuel peaker plants when demand spikes.

Why it matters: For charge point operators and fleet managers, Axle's platform offers a revenue stream by turning idle EV chargers into grid services, while procurement teams at utilities and OEMs gain a partner to monetise flexibility and meet rising electricity demand from electrification and data centres. The Series A signals growing investor confidence in software that unlocks value from existing charging infrastructure without new capital expenditure on generation or grid upgrades.

Grid software provider WeaveGrid is collaborating with GM Energy to give eligible Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac EV drivers in the US access to energy grid programmes. The partnership covers managed charging, bidirectional charging, and residential energy storage, targeting the 250,000 plus bidirectional capable GM EVs already on American roads. Through WeaveGrid's platform, eligible owners of bidirectional GM EVs and households with GM Energy's vehicle to home systems will be able to enrol in utility programmes where available.

Why it matters: The collaboration signals a shift in how grid operators view EVs, with utilities increasingly treating vehicles and home batteries as energy tools to balance demand rather than simply add to it. For charge point operators and energy managers, the partnership demonstrates how vehicle to grid and vehicle to home capabilities are moving from pilot schemes to scaled deployment across a major manufacturer's fleet.

Peak Power has brought a 3.6 MW / 7.2 MWh lithium ion battery energy storage system into commercial operation at Vuteq Canada's manufacturing facility in Woodstock, Ontario, alongside six Level 2 EV chargers installed through Canada's Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program. The battery system, owned by Madison Energy Infrastructure and operated by Peak Power, supports industrial energy cost savings, demand response participation, and grid reliability. The project accompanies a nearly $40 million facility expansion backed by $5 million in provincial funding, creating 145 new jobs.

Why it matters: The integration of workplace charging with behind the meter battery storage at an expanding industrial site demonstrates how manufacturers can bundle EV infrastructure with energy management systems to control costs and support grid services. The ZEVIP funded chargers provide a procurement model for workplace charging rollouts tied to facility capital projects in Canada.

InstaVolt has integrated Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) into its UK rapid charging network, which now spans more than 4,250 chargers across over 1,200 sites. The operator's Winchester Superhub already offers charging at 70p per kWh, or 65p per kWh for app users, enabled by stored renewable energy. InstaVolt also runs an off peak tariff of 55p per kWh between 8pm and 7am for app users.

Why it matters: Battery storage co located with rapid chargers can lower operating costs and improve grid resilience, a model that may influence future site design and tariff structures across the UK CPO sector. InstaVolt's pricing at Winchester demonstrates how on site BESS can translate renewable capture into competitive per kWh rates for drivers.

The World Resources Institute reports that 230 electric school buses across deployed vehicle to grid projects can now supply 8 MWh of power back to the grid at any given time, enough to power approximately 1,600 typical US homes for up to four hours. California leads US adoption, with Oakland Unified School District operating the largest project of 74 buses that add an estimated 2.1 GWh of clean energy to the state's grid annually. The deployments helped utilities manage peak demand during last week's heat wave.

Why it matters: Vehicle to grid capability is emerging as a practical grid service, with school bus fleets offering predictable availability during summer peak demand periods. The figures demonstrate early commercial scale for bidirectional charging infrastructure that CPOs and fleet operators can now price into procurement decisions.

Law firm Dentons has advised Zenobē Energy on the Coalburn battery energy storage system project in Scotland, according to Scottish Legal News. The project represents a significant battery storage development, though specific capacity or investment figures were not disclosed in the available excerpt. The legal work covers what is described as a landmark energy storage scheme.

Why it matters: Large battery storage projects like Coalburn can support grid stability and renewable energy integration, potentially creating opportunities for co-located EV charging infrastructure. Legal advisories on such deals signal active project pipelines in the UK energy storage sector, which increasingly overlaps with EV charging deployment.

Moment Energy has opened Megafactory 1 in Vancouver, BC, which it claims is the world's largest second-life EV battery factory, just six weeks after announcing the project. The facility repurposes retired EV batteries into commercial-scale battery energy storage systems for data centres, hospitals, factories and microgrids. The company expects the factory to produce 1 gigawatt hour of battery energy storage systems annually by 2030 and create more than 100 direct jobs plus over 1,000 indirect jobs across British Columbia.

Why it matters: The rapid deployment demonstrates a scalable model for meeting surging energy storage demand while creating a new supply chain for repurposed EV batteries, offering procurement teams an alternative to new battery systems for stationary applications. The 1 GWh annual capacity target by 2030 signals growing availability of second-life battery storage solutions for critical infrastructure projects.

European regulators are dismantling barriers that prevented electric vehicles from feeding power back to homes and grids, enabling vehicle-to-grid and vehicle-to-home applications. Major manufacturers including Volkswagen, BMW and BYD are positioning to commercialise bidirectional charging technology. Industry experts forecast that nearly all new electric cars will offer the capability by 2035.

Why it matters: Bidirectional charging transforms EVs into distributed energy assets, creating new revenue streams for charge point operators through grid services and demand response programmes. Procurement teams must evaluate whether future charging infrastructure can support two-way power flows as the technology becomes standard across vehicle platforms within a decade.

Tees Valley Lithium, a subsidiary of Alkemy Capital Investments, has published an impact report for a £185 million lithium hydroxide refinery at the Billingham Chemical Complex near Hull. The plant would produce enough battery-grade lithium annually for more than 500,000 electric vehicles and is projected to support close to 1,700 jobs and add £2.1 billion to the UK economy over 25 years. The project addresses Europe's reliance on China, which refines roughly two thirds of global lithium chemicals according to the IEA's latest Global Critical Minerals Outlook.

Why it matters: The refinery would give European battery plants a domestic source of lithium hydroxide, reducing dependence on Chinese midstream processing at a time when gigafactories from Sunderland to Skellefteå are scaling production. For procurement teams and charge point operators, a stable European battery supply chain lowers risk in the EV rollout and could accelerate vehicle availability across fleets.

Zaptec has outlined a vision for airport car parks to function as grid balancing energy hubs, leveraging EV charging infrastructure. The proposal, reported by TransportXtra, positions long stay parking facilities as potential sites for demand response and energy storage services. No specific capacity figures or airport partnerships were disclosed in the available excerpt.

Why it matters: The concept could open new revenue streams for airport operators and CPOs by monetising idle charging capacity through grid services. Procurement teams may need to evaluate bidirectional charging and grid connection requirements when specifying airport charging projects.

The Mobility House has agreed to sell its fleet electrification business unit, The Mobility House Solutions, to mobility services provider Edenred, with the transaction expected to complete in the third quarter of 2026. The unit serves more than 5,000 customers, operates over 2,500 actively managed fleet depots, and employs around 60 staff. The sale allows The Mobility House to concentrate on energy markets and vehicle to grid technology, while it continues partnerships in the bus sector and projects in cities including Amsterdam, New York and San Diego.

Why it matters: The divestment signals a strategic pivot by a major charging infrastructure player away from turnkey fleet solutions towards grid integration and V2G services, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics in the commercial charging market. Procurement teams working with The Mobility House on fleet projects will need to understand the transition to Edenred ownership and any changes to service delivery or contract terms.

National Grid Electricity Distribution is holding an engagement event on 1 July at Sandy Park Stadium in Exeter and online to gather business and community input on its next electricity distribution price control period, covering 2028 to 2033. Participants will be asked about network support for communities, connection enablement, flexible energy solutions and customer value. Sarah Jeffery, head of engagement and insights, said the sessions will show how earlier feedback is shaping plans and allow further input to ensure the company gets it right for customers and communities.

Why it matters: The consultation directly informs National Grid's investment and operational priorities for the South West over a five year regulatory period, shaping the pace and scale of grid capacity available for EV charging infrastructure and other electrification projects. Businesses involved in charging deployment can influence network planning assumptions and connection policies that will affect project timelines and costs through 2033.

Global Market Insights Inc. has released a market size and forecasts report covering the bidirectional EV charging sector from 2026 to 2035. The report examines the global market for vehicle to grid and vehicle to home charging technologies. No specific market value figures or growth projections are provided in the available excerpt.

Why it matters: Market intelligence on bidirectional charging helps charge point operators and infrastructure investors assess the commercial timeline for V2G and V2H services, which could create new revenue streams from grid balancing and energy arbitrage.

Truck manufacturer Scania has successfully demonstrated vehicle to grid (V2G) technology for heavy commercial vehicles using the Megawatt Charging System (MCS), with charging rates reaching up to 750 kW (1,000 A). The bidirectional charging system enables electric truck fleets to provide grid flexibility services including peak shaving, grid balancing and energy storage, while improving utilisation of local renewable energy generation such as solar power. The technology is initially expected to be most useful in depot charging environments where vehicles are parked for longer periods, with secure real time communication between truck, charger and energy management systems allowing dynamic control based on transport needs and grid conditions.

Why it matters: This demonstration marks a significant step in proving MCS infrastructure can support bidirectional charging at megawatt scale, potentially transforming depot operators from pure energy consumers into grid service providers. For CPOs and fleet depot planners, the technology opens new revenue streams through grid services while improving the business case for high power charging infrastructure investments.

Edinburgh has begun construction on a new electric distribution substation, according to Local News Digital. The project marks progress in the city's grid infrastructure expansion, though no capacity figures or completion timeline were disclosed in the available report.

Why it matters: Upgraded distribution substations are essential for supporting the increased load from public and depot EV charging networks. Grid reinforcement projects like this can reduce connection delays and costs for charge point operators planning rollouts in Edinburgh.

Electricity supply companies in Karnataka recorded a 2 per cent increase in power consumption from electric vehicles during April and May, driven by rising EV bookings and green mobility awareness. The state energy department is partnering with private firms, highways authorities and Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited to install solar enabled fast charging stations along highways and public sites. Officials plan a second solar enabled charging unit near the airport with 45 to 50 kW capacity, designed to fully charge 30 to 90 kWh batteries within 30 minutes using DC charging.

Why it matters: The 2 per cent demand spike signals growing infrastructure pressure as EV adoption accelerates, creating immediate procurement opportunities for solar enabled fast charging hardware and highway site partnerships. CPOs and suppliers should note Karnataka's focus on DC fast charging with sub 30 minute turnaround times, which will shape technical specifications for upcoming tenders.

A large scale facility is planned for British Columbia to give second life applications to used electric vehicle batteries. The project, reported by driving.ca, will focus on repurposing end of life EV battery packs rather than disposing of them. No capacity figures or timeline details were provided in the available excerpt.

Why it matters: Battery recycling and repurposing infrastructure is critical for CPOs managing asset lifecycles and for procurement teams evaluating total cost of ownership in EV charging deployments. A Canadian mega-factory could create a regional supply chain for refurbished energy storage systems that support grid services or backup power at charging sites.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has awarded more than $6 million to seven vehicle to grid integration projects focused on EV charging flexibility, bidirectional charging and grid cost reduction. The largest award, worth more than $1.6 million, went to Roundtrip EV Solutions for a bidirectional fast charging project with four electric refuse trucks in Ulster County municipal fleets. Gravity received nearly $1 million for a bidirectional vehicle to grid integration platform in Manhattan, while Energy One secured almost $1 million for a project integrating electric refrigerated trailers with thermal energy storage at the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center in Brooklyn.

Why it matters: The funding signals growing state support for bidirectional charging infrastructure and managed charging technologies that can reduce deployment costs and create new revenue streams for fleet operators. Projects covering municipal refuse trucks, commercial trailers and urban fast charging demonstrate the breadth of vehicle to grid applications now attracting public investment in the US market.

Kenya Power has generated Sh382 million in revenue from the e-mobility sector, driven by increasing electric vehicle adoption in the country. The utility company's earnings reflect growing demand for EV charging infrastructure and services across Kenya. The figure was reported by The Star, highlighting the commercial viability of EV charging operations for established power distributors.

Why it matters: The Sh382 million revenue demonstrates a proven business case for utilities entering the EV charging market in East Africa, potentially encouraging further infrastructure investment. For charge point operators and procurement teams, Kenya Power's financial success signals a maturing market with revenue opportunities in the region.

Energy suppliers are migrating customers to half-hourly settlement, a system in which smart meters record electricity consumption every 30 minutes rather than relying on daily estimates. The industry targets 80 per cent of meters on the new billing framework by October, a shift designed to manage demand as adoption of electric vehicles, smart meters and renewable generation grows. Experts caution that many households remain unaware of how the change may lead to time-of-use pricing, where electricity costs fluctuate throughout the day.

Why it matters: Time-of-use tariffs will steer EV charging to off-peak hours, flattening grid demand and reducing infrastructure strain. Charge-point operators and fleet managers must plan for customers seeking cheaper overnight sessions and may need dynamic pricing or load-management software to align with half-hourly settlement.

The German Ministry of Economic Affairs held the third European Summit for Bidirectional Charging, highlighting cross-border progress since 2023 while acknowledging domestic delays in enabling drivers to support the grid. BMW has launched Germany's first commercial V2G service with E.ON, Ford plans a summer 2025 launch with Octopus Energy, Volkswagen targets Q4 2026 through Elli, and Renault and Mercedes aim for late 2025 offerings with The Mobility House. Bidirectional-ready models now include the Renault 5, Ford Capri and Explorer, several Volkswagen vehicles, the Mercedes GLC and BMW iX3, plus a recent MAN electric truck demonstration.

Why it matters: Procurement teams and charge-point operators tracking V2G infrastructure need to align hardware and software roadmaps with staggered OEM launches from 2025 to 2026. Germany's regulatory bottlenecks may delay grid-service revenue streams compared to faster-moving European markets, affecting business-case timelines for bidirectional depot and public charging investments.

Grid software startup Texture has closed a 12.5 million dollar Series A round, co-led by VoLo Earth Ventures and Equal Ventures, bringing total funding to roughly 23 million dollars. The platform aggregates real-time data from EV chargers, batteries, solar systems, SCADA, advanced metering infrastructure and smart thermostats into a single view for utility operators facing demand spikes from electric vehicles, data centres and renewables. Texture is initially targeting utility cooperatives, which serve around 42 million customers in the United States.

Why it matters: As EV charging rollouts accelerate, grid capacity constraints are becoming a critical bottleneck for charge point operators and site hosts. Software that helps utilities monitor and respond to charging demand in real time could speed up connection approvals and reduce costly grid upgrade requirements for new installations.

Supply Chain Digital has published an analysis of E.ON's acquisition of OVO Energy and what the deal means for energy supply chains in the United Kingdom. The article examines the potential impacts on the broader energy sector as the two companies combine operations.

Why it matters: Consolidation among major energy suppliers can reshape procurement dynamics for EV charging operators, potentially affecting electricity supply agreements, grid connection processes and partnership opportunities for charge point operators across the UK.

While modern EVs carry batteries large enough to power a home for days, only select models include the hardware and software for safe bidirectional charging. Ford's F-150 Lightning leads adoption in the United States, offering up to 9.6 kW of vehicle to home power output for backup during outages or peak shaving. An update from 20 May 2026 notes new V2H capable models from Volvo and the return of the ID.BUZZ.

Why it matters: Procurement teams evaluating fleet electrification or workplace charging must verify V2H compatibility if they plan to use EVs for grid services or resilience, as the feature is not standard across models. CPOs exploring vehicle to grid or vehicle to building revenue streams face a limited pool of compatible vehicles, constraining business case development.

Delta Electronics has partnered with DTE Energy to develop a microgrid aimed at reducing electricity costs at a facility. The project, reported by DBusiness Magazine, represents a collaboration between the power electronics manufacturer and the Michigan utility to deploy on site generation and storage infrastructure. No financial details or capacity figures were disclosed in the available excerpt.

Why it matters: The microgrid deployment signals potential for integrated EV charging infrastructure at industrial sites, where Delta's power electronics expertise and DTE's utility scale resources could support fleet electrification and demand management for charging operations.

Siliconindia reports that India's electric vehicle expansion is contingent on upgrading grid infrastructure and implementing effective energy management systems. The publication highlights the need for coordinated planning between EV rollout and power network capacity to support charging demand. No specific figures or timelines are provided in the available excerpt.

Why it matters: Charge point operators and infrastructure developers in India must factor grid constraints into site selection and deployment schedules. The emphasis on energy management signals potential opportunities for smart charging solutions and grid integration technologies in the Indian market.

London-listed Invinity Energy Systems has delivered 90 vanadium flow batteries totalling 20.7 megawatt-hours to the Copwood VFB Energy Hub in East Sussex, paired with a 3 MW solar array. The system, due to enter service later in 2026, will store solar energy during the day and discharge it during evening peaks, with capacity to cover the daily needs of around 3,000 homes. Invinity highlights the water-based electrolyte's fire safety advantage and the technology's suitability for long-duration energy shifting and decades of heavy-duty cycling.

Why it matters: The project marks the largest vanadium flow battery deployment in Europe and signals growing interest in non-lithium storage technologies for grid-scale applications, particularly where fire risk and planning concerns are prominent. Procurement teams evaluating long-duration storage for renewable integration may see vanadium flow batteries as a viable alternative for sites with space and a need for extended cycling life.

Iberdrola has announced a new investment cycle in Brazil, committing nearly 50 billion reais to electricity networks through 2030. The announcement signals a major capital deployment in Brazilian grid infrastructure. The story was reported by SolarQuarter.

Why it matters: Large scale grid investment in Brazil strengthens the underlying electricity infrastructure that EV charging networks depend on, potentially easing grid connection challenges and creating partnership opportunities for CPOs and charging developers operating in the country.

Instavolt has commissioned five new battery energy storage system (BESS) sites, each costing approximately £500,000, bringing its total battery-equipped locations to eight. The charge point operator plans at least 20 additional BESS sites before the end of 2026, with confirmed locations including Wisbech, Knutsford, Cheltenham, Blyth, Stockton-on-Tees, Penrith, York, and Thirsk. CEO Delvin Lane said the batteries charge overnight when energy is cheaper and cleaner, with stored power used during expensive daytime hours to pass savings to drivers.

Why it matters: Battery storage allows CPOs to bypass grid connection delays and reduce exposure to peak electricity costs, making rapid charging hub deployment faster and more economically viable. The £500,000 per site investment signals a strategic shift toward on-site energy management as a competitive differentiator in the UK charging market.