By Tom McCalmont, Paired Power – for Fleet Management Weekly
Published April 9, 2025
The EVs of today have rapidly transformed from being a novelty to standing toe-to-toe with their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts in performance, reliability, and ease of use.
Consumers have largely accepted that EVs can fit into their lives, whether it be for personal or business use. The problem now, however, is can the grid handle the demand? For many potential users, the answer is increasingly no.
Throughout the U.S., grid operators have reported challenges caused by the expansion of EV use. Distribution systems, which aren’t as closely monitored as transmission systems, have struggled with meeting EV charging demand. Even one neighborhood or business that makes the switch to EVs can create so-called hot spots that can quickly overload local distribution grids.
Surveys have shown that most developers of EV charging infrastructure have had trouble securing electricity for their projects in recent years. The wait for grid upgrades for charging hubs can take years and can be prohibitively costly.
The limitations within existing grid constraints have made the need for alternatives increasingly important, and microgrid-supported charging is a key piece of the solution. This approach combines EV charging with battery storage and microgrid technology to circumvent utility grid limitations. Adding the ability to produce and store energy in its own system, off-grid or microgrid charging solutions can operate in concert with the grid or even independently from it when needed.
Read the full piece here
