New research has demonstrated how smart energy hubs integrating solar generation, battery energy storage and bidirectional EV charging can help organisations with fleet electrification while reducing energy costs and overcoming grid constraints.
Delivered through the UK Government-funded Innovate UK Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Phase 2 Programme, the study provides compelling evidence that DC-coupled energy hubs can unlock substantial energy savings, lower peak demand and overcome grid constraints without the need for expensive network reinforcement.
The report explores the performance of the 3ti Papilio3 V2X DC FastHub across a range of commercial and public-sector use cases, including fleet depots, factories, offices and leisure destinations.
Using Cenex's EIGER energy modelling tool, the study assessed how DC-coupled energy systems can optimise energy use behind the meter, enabling organisations to install and operate EV charging infrastructure more effectively, even where grid capacity is limited.
The report shows that annual energy cost savings of approximately £2,600–£3,700 can be achieved across office, leisure and depot sites operating on two-rate tariffs, while high-demand factory sites could realise annual savings exceeding £18,000. In addition, significantly greater savings may be possible under dynamic electricity tariffs.
The project also showed that peak site demand can be reduced by between 5 kW and 150 kW, depending on the site and operational profile, and that DC-coupled architecture reduces energy conversion losses, improving overall system efficiency and renewable energy utilisation.
The research also highlights that no single solution fits every site. System performance depends on factors including vehicle charging behaviour, battery sizing, solar generation capacity, site electrical demand and tariff structure, reinforcing the importance of tailored system design.
Steve Carroll, Head of Research and Technical Services, Cenex said “Cenex modelling demonstrated how smart DC microgrids integrating solar, storage and bidirectional EV charging can significantly reduce energy costs, lower peak demand and support fleet electrification. Solutions like the Fasthub will be essential if we are to electrify transport operations and optimise energy use in today’s grid-constrained environments.”
Mark Potter, CTO, 3ti said “This research makes a compelling value case for bidirectional charging hubs in fleet depots, factories and sites with limited grid capacity. The HALO V2X Hub brings solar generation, battery storage and bidirectional EV charging together in a behind-the-meter DC microgrid, and Cenex's modelling shows the tangible savings and grid benefits that delivers. For fleet operators facing the pressures of rising energy costs and decarbonisation deadlines, it's a strong evidence base for investment. The priority now is getting the vehicle makers following the open interoperability standards which will allow this to deliver real-world results.”
The project provides practical evidence to support the deployment of scalable DC microgrids and smart energy management systems across a wide range of sectors, helping businesses, local authorities and fleet operators make informed investment decisions.
The full report provides detailed modelling results, site-by-site analysis and practical recommendations for organisations planning EV charging infrastructure and fleet electrification programmes.
