GRIDSERVE and Extra have opened a new 24-bay Electric Super Hub at Extra’s Cobham Services on the M25 (Junctions 9/10).
The ultra-rapid charging bays are equipped with GRIDSERVE’s latest 400kW-capable chargers, adding more than 100 miles of range in under 10 minutes.
The Cobham Electric Super Hub also saw a partnership with UK Power Networks and ESP to connect the site using a Distributed Energy Resources Management System (DERMS).
DERMS enabled GRIDSERVE to access additional electricity capacity dynamically whenever it becomes available. The system can automatically increase or reduce power delivered to the site in less than 60 seconds, responding in real time to conditions on the wider electricity network.
This smarter, more flexible approach enables high-power charging sites to connect more quickly and with lower upfront infrastructure costs, while making better use of existing electricity networks.
It also demonstrates, for the first time, that flexible demand management can support major electricity users such as EV charging hubs.
Daniel Kunkel, CEO at GRIDSERVE, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to expand our partnership with Extra at Cobham Services. This new Electric Super Hub represents another important step in delivering the reliable, ultra-rapid charging network EV drivers need, while the introduction of DERMS for flexible demand is a genuine breakthrough for the industry.
“By enabling smarter use of available grid capacity, we’re able to connect sites more quickly and more cost-effectively, helping us bring new Electric Super Hubs online faster while continuing to deliver the best possible charging experience for drivers.”
Tom Dobson, Chief Executive at Extra MSA, said:
“Our partnership with GRIDSERVE enables us to meet the rapidly growing demand for convenient, high-speed EV charging while reinforcing our position as the UK’s leading motorway service operator for electric vehicle infrastructure. Systems such as DERMS will be vital as we continue to invest significantly in high-power EV charging across our sites.
“We are proud to play our part in supporting the transition to a low-carbon future, unlocking grid capacity and providing our customers with reliable, high-performance charging.”
Daniel Saker, Head of Network Strategy at UK Power Networks DSO, added:
“This is a landmark moment for UK Power Networks as we bring DERMS to IDNO customers for the first time. By enabling smarter, more flexible connections, we’re helping businesses and communities get their low-carbon projects online faster and more efficiently.”
Image courtesy of Gridserve
