Developed in collaboration with the British company Levistor, the system aims to enhance the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in areas where the existing grid struggles to meet the growing demand for ultra-rapid chargers.
The FESS will be tested in real-world conditions at National Highways’ test and development center in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire. The trial, which will also involve other energy storage and generation technologies such as batteries and solar panels, is set to begin in 2025 with large-scale commercial product trials.
This system is seen as a key solution in areas where motorway service stations, such as those operated by Moto, have raised concerns about the insufficient capacity of the local grid to support the demand for ultra-rapid chargers. This is a growing issue as demand for high-power chargers continues to increase across the UK.
The FESS works by storing energy during periods of low electricity demand, taking advantage of the energy available in the grid when consumption is lower.
The stored energy is then released rapidly through a standard EV charging point, providing a temporary power boost. This ability to quickly release energy can help alleviate grid constraints and improve the charging experience for EV users who are seeking faster and more efficient charging options.
The FESS system not only addresses energy infrastructure challenges but also presents a model for public-private collaboration, where National Highways, electricity network operators, and charge point operators work together to implement sustainable solutions.
This collaboration is seen as essential for ensuring an efficient and scalable charging infrastructure that will support widespread EV adoption across the UK.
The trial of this system will mark a significant milestone in the quest for innovative solutions to improve charging infrastructure, overcoming the current limitations of the electrical grid and enabling the growth of electric mobility.
By implementing FESS, National Highways aims to ensure that the charging network is ready for the future, supporting the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system.
