Ionity adapts strategy in Europe

Ionity is adjusting its approach in Europe to tackle challenges related to the electrical grid, which is struggling to keep up with the growing demand for fast electric vehicle (EV) charging. The company is exploring new technologies to deploy more fast chargers without waiting for major upgrades to the grid infrastructure.

New technology in Germany

In Germany, Ionity is testing a new system that allows it to install more fast chargers without extensive infrastructure changes. The first full implementation of this strategy is in Wertheim, Baden-Württemberg, where the company has added more charging points using a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

Battery storage system details

The BESS at Wertheim, supplied by Chinese manufacturer Sungrow, has a total capacity of 1,028 kWh and a maximum power of 500 kW. It is installed outside the charging park and helps manage energy while the medium-voltage grid connection is upgraded, which could take up to three years.

Energy management system

An intelligent energy management system distributes power between the grid, storage, and chargers based on current needs. During busy times, the battery can supply extra power to the chargers, reducing the peak demand on the grid and ensuring a steady flow of electricity to users.

New charging park in Hemsbach

In Hemsbach, the same state, Ionity is building a new fast charging park with twelve high-power charging points. The site will include a photovoltaic canopy with a peak power expected to exceed 223 kWp, along with a battery storage system of more than 2 MWh.

Future battery plans

Ionity plans to install about fifty storage systems across Europe by 2027, with a total capacity exceeding 20 MWh. These batteries will be used not only for EV charging but also for grid services, helping to stabilize the energy system and participate in energy markets.

Integrated management system

The company is developing an intelligent management system to coordinate connections, storage, solar panels, and chargers. Currently, Ionity favors external storage solutions that can power multiple chargers regardless of the equipment used on-site.

Future charger designs

Ionity remains open to chargers with built-in batteries, which could change the appearance of charging areas as the number of electric vehicles continues to grow. This flexibility may lead to new designs and configurations in the future.