Better Than Net Zero Off-Grid Rapid Charging for Fleet Managers

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Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK
Innovate UK

£1,230,940

July 31, 2021

March 31, 2022

**Vision:** To demonstrate a truly disruptive EV infrastructure solution that will allow fleet managers to scale their EV fuelling infrastructure to meet increasing demand without having to invest in rapid-charging infrastructure. Our off-grid 80kW charging solution uses fugitive-methane (methane that is emitted from organic waste as it decays) to power the charger. If fugitive methane escapes to atmosphere, it is 34-86 times more damaging to the atmosphere than CO2\. Capturing and consuming fugitive methane results in climate repair. It is the only solution on the market that offers better than net zero (x34) renewable energy to power their electric fleet and heat their office buildings. Our charging-as-a-service business model ensures current and prospective electric vehicle fleet operators are able to access fixed rate pricing (17p/kWh) and a flexible charging capability that is affordable, reliable and secure.

**Objectives:** Bennamann is in the process of developing a minimal viable product (MVP), which uses compressed fugitive methane (CFM) to power the system. In order to commercialise the solution, it will need to be powered by liquid fugitive methane (LFM), which is far more economical to transport. Our key objectives for this project are to: 1) demonstrate our MVP in an operational environment and 2) design LFM aspects of our solution for commercialisation.

**Innovation:** 80kW off-grid rapid charging solution that incorporates a variable speed generator, which ensures efficient charging of any size of vehicle, as the generator scales its outputs to engine requirements. Our solution bypasses the need for a large inverter, reducing capex costs significantly. The solution provides a 400v DC output and is powered via a fugitive methane MST, which can hold the equivalent of 4,000kW of power, enough to provide 50-88 full charges (45kW-80kW). For every 80kW charge, an additional 100kW+ of bioheat is produced, which can provide heat of ~90oC to heat space/water in the office building.

**Update for PCR 09 Mar 2022**
The core aspects of the project remain unchanged. Due to delays in procurement the project scope will not be completed by 31 Mar 22 and therefore the deliverables completed by 31 Mar 22 will be modified. Details of the changes are presented in the attachment.