UK and France-based companies partner to develop modular energy storage systems utilizing retired electric vehicle batteries
Connected Energy and Forsee Power have formalized a partnership agreement to jointly develop a modular, scalable energy storage solution utilizing second-life electric vehicle batteries. The collaboration combines Connected Energy’s established second-life technology with Forsee Power’s ZEN 35 and ZEN 42 battery packs, currently powering approximately 1,500 electric buses across Europe.
The agreement also outlines an operating model to facilitate large-scale commercial deployment in the future. The initiative aims to extend the useful life of electric vehicle batteries by repurposing them for energy storage applications, including supporting renewable energy generation and behind-the-meter storage solutions.
Matthew Lumsden, CEO of Connected Energy, described the agreement as “a significant step forward in delivering a new second-life economy for EV batteries.” He added, “The availability of second-life batteries is increasing rapidly and the best way to realize the value in them is through partnerships that span the value chain.”
Founded in 2010, Connected Energy brings extensive expertise in second-life battery storage systems with installations throughout Europe. Meanwhile, Forsee Power, established as a major battery systems provider for sustainable electric transport, operates across Europe, Asia, and North America.
“We are glad to extend our partnership with Connected Energy initiated in 2021, to develop a grid-scale energy storage system utilizing battery packs from electric buses that have completed their first life,” said Christophe Gurtner, Chairman & CEO of Forsee Power.
Gurtner emphasized the significant potential of their partnership, noting that as the leading provider of battery systems for buses outside China, Forsee Power has equipped more than 4,200 buses and will have access to a substantial number of batteries after their primary use.
The partners plan to make their first 2.5MWh system operational in the UK by late 2025. Following this initial project, they anticipate developing additional installations exceeding 25MWh each in both the UK and France.
This partnership represents an important advancement in sustainable energy solutions, creating additional revenue streams while addressing growing global energy demands through environmentally responsible battery reuse.
