Stagecoach EV fleet to participate in UK capacity market and balance intermittency

Dublin-based smart energy company GridBeyond and Stagecoach, the largest bus operator in the UK, have announced a partnership to enable the latter to participate in the UK’s capacity market from October 2024.

According to the partners in a release, their collaboration will allow Stagecoach to optimise the energy consumption of its EV fleet and integrate renewable energy into their business strategy.

The capacity market aims to ensure there is reliable electricity supply to meet peaks in demand, safeguarding against the possibility of blackouts if renewables sources such as those dependent on weather, are not generating enough.

GridBeyond describes its platform as the connection between operational, generation and storage assets to manage energy flexibility automatically with the use of AI.

Their software, named GridBeyond Point, analyses data sources with AI and machine learning to ascertain the best way to use energy flexibility on site and within the energy market in real time. This extends into asset optimisation, price optimisation, balancing services and demand side response, as well as energy market trading.

Use of this technology will enable Stagecoach to participate in the capacity market, allowing the company to support the grid when there is a high risk that a system stress event could occur.

Additionally, the total cost of ownership from its fleet transition to EV will be reduced through revenues earned by participation.

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EV fleets are expanding at a fast pace in several of the world’s largest markets. This is being driven by governments and operators who are promoting EVs as a key technology to curb oil use, fight climate change and air pollution.

As bus companies increase their EV operational fleets there are new opportunities to use this load not only as consumers but also as contributors to the power grid and its decarbonisation through the integration of renewables.

GridBeyond head of EV solutions Michael Kent said: “There are many opportunities for EV fleet operators to support the grid and become a key player in supporting the energy transition.

“We look forward to working together with Stagecoach and to start the Capacity Market programme. The long-term contract is a recognition of GridBeyond expertise and capabilities.”

Added Stagecoach asset management & infrastructure director Tony Cockcroft: “We are pleased to be partnering with GridBeyond as we press ahead with our ambitious fleet decarbonisation plan.

“Using GridBeyond’s expertise in energy markets will enable us to get the most value out of our significant investment into our electric fleet.”