Renault and Powervault to give EV batteries a “second life”

Renault and Powervault have announced a partnership to re-use electric vehicle batteries in home energy storage units.

The partnership will reduce the cost of a Powervault smart battery unit by 30 per cent, helping Powervault to bring home energy storage to the tipping point of mass-market roll-out in the UK.

Powervault is placing 50 trial units, powered by second life batteries provided by Renault, in the homes of customers who already have solar panels installed.

The trial will explore the technical performance of second life batteries as well as customer reaction to home energy storage to help develop a roll-out strategy for the mass-market.

The trial will be run with eligible customers of M&S Energy, plus social housing tenants and schools in the South East.

Nicolas Schottey, program director, EV batteries and infrastructures at Renault, said: “Thanks to this home energy storage partnership with Powervault, Renault is adding a new element into its global strategy for second life batteries, which already covers a large number of usages from industrial to residential building and districts.

“The second life use not only gives additional life to electric vehicle batteries before they are recycled, but also allow consumers to save money. It’s a win-win-win: for EV owners, home-owners and the planet.”