EDF is to collaborate with Pod Point on a new smart charging pilot.

The initiative aims to optimise EV charging schedules based on day-ahead electricity demand forecasts. By shifting customers’ electricity use to off peak hours, the product will help reduce carbon emissions and support a greener energy system.

As part of the initial six-month pilot period, selected Pod Point customers will be incentivised for participating in the pilot, which will enable Pod Point to adjust charging schedules and pause charging sessions by up to four hours between 16:00 and 20:00 when wholesale energy demand is typically at its highest.

The partnership will serve as a crucial avenue for advancing how these assets engage with the energy system. Additionally, it will provide insights on the extent of flexibility these assets offer.

Stuart Fenner, wholesale market services commercial director at EDF, said: "We are delighted to partner with Pod Point on this Smart Charging pilot, which combines EDF's expertise in energy forecasting and commitment to helping Britain achieve net zero, with Pod Point's innovative charging solutions. Through the optimisation of EV charging, our aim is to help customers save cash and carbon, whilst at the same time, advancing the transition to a greener future.”

Commenting on the pilot, Pilgrim Beart, VP Grid at Pod Point said: “We’re delighted to gain access to EDF’s powerful flexibility trading capability, and we’re excited to contribute to the innovations in this space as the world of EV flexibility continues to grow and evolve.”

By harnessing the power of data and innovation, EDF continues to lead the way in delivering sustainable energy solutions that benefit customers and accelerate the transition to more low carbon and renewable electricity sources.

The results of this initial product pilot will play a crucial role in shaping future offerings for EV drivers, aiding the comprehension of customer behaviours and how EVs can adapt to real-time market fluctuations. Aggregation stands as a pivotal facilitator of household flexibility, and this initiative will offer EDF the opportunity to assess fundamental procedures and data streams on a collective EV scale.