We propose a novel solution to the current trilemma of achieving significant growth in EV charging infrastructure, facilitating continued development of onshore renewable generation and mitigating electricity grid constraints.

FEVER will develop a novel hybrid OVES solution to rate and deliver grid independent EV charging stations. To reach this goal, a hybrid energy store is necessary to address both the seasonal performance and cost issues associated with this concept, as lithium-ion battery technology on its own is unable to enable this vision.

The FEVER concept is both timely and of significant national importance. The country’s current electricity network demand side is both stimulated and threatened by the potential electrification of the UK’s 30m+ vehicle fleet. All UK Distribution Network Operators now suffer from areas with renewable capacity constraints, hence the need for development in active network management solutions, often enabled through the use of electricity storage technology.

One vision for our electricity system is within the National Grid’s ambitious 2050 Community Renewables scenario, where rapid decarbonisation is achieved through high level decentralisation. Local energy networks will be integral to achieving this directive, and FEVER’s system will contribute directly towards this goal.

This project subscribes to the delivery of further renewable generation capacity. It offers a zero-emission supply to the expansion of the EV charging infrastructure enabled by employing local electricity energy storage, and as the future nuclei of local smart grids. This is both a timely and a responsible approach to research and innovation that recognises and integrates considerations of social acceptance.

The nature, cost and temporal storage capabilities (daily, weekly and seasonal) of the OVES is critical. On its own, lithium-ion battery technology is too expensive and ineffective for long term seasonal storage. However, novel hybridisation of electrical energy storage through solutions that can optimise the power, energy, cost and temporal storage challenges could deliver this concept whilst addressing our research objectives.

The social acceptance of the OVES is also a crucial consideration; with the attitudes and actions of stakeholders and publics, including end-users, known to shape the commercial viability and real-world success of technological innovation.