Electric Cars

A Dutch startup, Ore Energy, which specializes in long-duration energy storage, has announced a landmark agreement to supply its iron-air battery systems across continental Europe. This initiative, highlighted by an initial deployment with Budget Thuis, a prominent Dutch energy supplier, underscores Europe's commitment to enhancing its renewable energy infrastructure.

The company recently secured $43 million in Series A funding, bringing its total raised capital to over $61 million. This financial injection will facilitate the establishment of its first manufacturing plant, with an ambitious goal of achieving gigawatt-hour scale production by 2028. The deal with Budget Thuis involves the deployment of 1 gigawatt-hour (GWh) of iron-air energy storage, commencing with a 400-megawatt-hour (MWh) phase slated for delivery in 2028. This partnership represents a pivotal moment as it marks the first iron-air storage collaboration with a European energy provider, addressing the critical need for extended energy storage solutions to balance intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar power.

Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries that offer power for a few hours, Ore Energy's iron-air batteries are engineered to store electricity for up to 100 hours, making them ideal for bridging multi-day energy generation shortfalls. Despite being larger and slightly less efficient than their lithium-ion counterparts, the cost-effectiveness and availability of materials like iron, water, and air provide a significant advantage for large-scale grid applications. The modular design, utilizing 40-foot containers, allows for scalable capacity, enabling the storage of excess wind power during peak generation and its release during periods of low renewable output and high electricity demand. This approach not only aims to reduce reliance on fluctuating fossil fuel prices but also promises a more stable and predictable electricity supply for consumers.

The successful scaling of projects like this holds immense potential for guaranteeing a steady supply of renewable power, irrespective of climatic variations. By leveraging innovative long-duration battery technologies, Europe is positioning itself at the forefront of the global transition to a sustainable energy future, mitigating the challenges posed by the variability of renewable energy sources and fostering greater energy independence.

EVgo, a prominent electric vehicle charging provider in the United States, is actively growing its rapid charging network. The company plans to install more than 500 new high-speed charging points at various retail locations throughout the country, building on its existing infrastructure of over 5,000 direct current fast-charging ports.

This expansion is a result of an extended collaboration with Brixmor Property Group, a major real estate developer. The goal is to enhance the availability of EV charging stations within the parking facilities of Brixmor's commercial properties. Upon completion, fast chargers from EVgo will be present at over 90 Brixmor shopping centers, which represents more than a quarter of the developer's entire property portfolio.

New EVgo 350-kilowatt charging stations will be deployed in several states, including Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The rollout is scheduled to commence later this year, with the inaugural site anticipated to open in Barn Plaza, located in a suburb of Philadelphia.

Each of these new installations will accommodate up to 12 EVgo chargers, with every charger capable of simultaneously powering two electric vehicles. By strategically placing these fast chargers at shopping destinations, both companies aim to simplify daily life for EV owners who may not have access to home charging. Brixmor reports that its locations attract over 900 million consumer visits annually, indicating substantial traffic and significant potential for growth in EV charging adoption.

Scott Levitan, Executive Vice President of Growth at EVgo, highlighted the consumer-centric approach: "Drivers across the U.S. desire charging solutions that fit effortlessly into their daily schedules. Shopping centers offer an ideal setting for individuals to charge their vehicles while engaging in activities like grocery shopping, dining, or other errands." He further added, "Strengthening our collaboration with Brixmor will enhance the accessibility of EV charging for drivers nationwide and support the increasing demand for public charging options in convenient, everyday locations."

The relationship between EVgo and Brixmor dates back to 2016 when the first charger was installed at a Brixmor site, establishing a decade-long history of partnership. Their continued expansion aims to further improve the experience for electric vehicle drivers.

In addition to this partnership, EVgo has also teamed up with other notable companies, such as Pilot Company and General Motors, to deploy its fast chargers. Data from the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center indicates that EVgo currently operates 5,158 individual DC charging ports across 1,178 locations nationwide.

The ongoing growth of EVgo's charging network underscores a broader industry trend toward integrating electric vehicle infrastructure into popular commercial and retail spaces. This strategic placement seeks to alleviate range anxiety and make EV ownership more practical and appealing for a wider demographic of consumers.