Partnership to settle grid imbalance with EV charging platform

Danish EV charging platform Monta and Dublin energy optimiser GridBeyond have partnered to deliver technology that transforms charging points into resources for grid stability.

Through the partnership, which aims to reduce stress on the power grid, Monta’s managed EV chargers will be used as demand side assets in the capacity market and SFFR (Static Firm Frequency Response) programmes.

By pausing all ongoing charges, electricity demand is reduced, matching the pattern set by the imbalance, stabilising the grid and earning revenues from participation of these flexible assets within the market. Monta customers can opt into the service via Monta’s ‘PowerBank’ product.

“EVs have a huge opportunity to serve as a flexible asset to the grid if charging is managed correctly. We’re excited to partner with GridBeyond to deliver this pioneering service in the UK and Ireland,” said Monta’s regional director Alok Dubey in a release.

Have you read:
How France is leading in the digitalisation of its electrical grid
Powering ahead securely: Why EV charging stations need better protection

According to the partners, the testing stage is already underway and has delivered successful results.

By linking with Monta’s platform GridBeyond is able to provide market access to flexibility programmes in Great Britain, to forecast periods in advance where imbalances occur and aggregate the flexibility provided by Monta’s charges for dispatch under market programmes.

“GridBeyond are delighted to be partnering with Monta in this innovate solution to help balance the local and national grids. As EV ownership grows, the opportunity that these types of services gives can provide a useful solution across the UK. We are looking forward to growing our relationship with Monta, who are a market leader in EV software related services” added Michael Kent, head of EV Solutions at GridBeyond.

The partners cite how EV charging stations are often concentrated in specific areas, especially urban centres, which can lead to a situation where the local grid struggles to meet increased demand, affecting not only the charging but also the overall stability of the electricity supply to homes and businesses.

Grid contribution, they state, becomes pivotal during times of imbalance – either an unforeseen dip in power generation or a surge in demand across the local distribution network or the wider power grid.