Cenex has published research indicating that DC-coupled energy hubs integrating solar generation, battery storage and bidirectional electric vehicle charging can reduce operating costs and help fleet operators manage limited grid capacity.
The study was carried out under the UK Government-backed Innovate UK Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Phase 2 Programme and evaluated the performance of the 3ti Papilio3 V2X DC FastHub across several commercial site types.
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Savings Vary by Site Type
According to Cenex, annual energy cost savings of approximately £2,600 to £3,700 ($3,460 to $4,920) are achievable at office, leisure and depot locations operating under two-rate electricity tariffs.
For sites with higher electricity demand, such as factories, annual savings could exceed £18,000 ($23,940).
The study also found that peak electricity demand could be reduced by between 5 kilowatts and 150 kilowatts, depending on the operating profile of each site.
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DC-Coupled Architecture Evaluated
Cenex used its EIGER energy modelling platform to assess how DC-coupled energy systems operate behind the electricity meter.
According to the study, the architecture enables solar generation, battery storage and bidirectional electric vehicle charging to work together while reducing energy conversion losses compared with conventional AC-coupled systems.
The approach is also intended to support EV charging at locations where grid connection capacity is limited.
Performance Depends on Local Conditions
The research found that financial performance varies according to several factors, including charging patterns, battery size, installed solar capacity, site electricity demand and tariff structures.
Cenex said the greatest benefits were observed under dynamic electricity tariffs, where intelligent energy management can maximize the value of stored and locally generated electricity.
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The study also concluded that integrated energy hubs may help some fleet operators avoid the need for costly grid connection upgrades by managing electricity demand more efficiently.