Innovation through action is delivering real savings for drivers

As part of a major national programme to future-proof our charging hubs, we’ve just brought five new battery energy storage system (BESS) sites online, with at least 20 more planned before the end of 2026. It’s a significant investment – and one that’s already making a real difference to drivers.

The batteries charge overnight when energy is cheaper and we draw on that stored power during the more expensive daytime hours. Savings are then passed back to our customers. Winchester is where this model is most advanced. Our flagship Superhub combines on-site battery storage with solar generation, and in March alone, 42,000 kWh of zero-cost solar power was fed into the network. 91% of all energy sold was delivered during peak hours, even though 89% of energy purchased from the grid was stored overnight at off-peak rates. The result is a site that delivers lower prices for drivers – regardless of when they plug in.

Until 31st August, all drivers at the Winchester Superhub can charge for a flat 70p/kWh, with no app or membership required. Those using the free InstaVolt app benefit from an even lower rate of 65p/kWh, and a new off-peak price of 55p/kWh between 8pm and 7am – the lowest available for ultra-rapid charging without a subscription.

Located near Winchester, just off the A34 and M3, Winchester is the UK’s largest single-operator ultra-rapid charging hub, with 44 chargers, on-site amenities, and solar generation on site. This summer’s pricing is a direct result of the infrastructure investment we’ve made – and as battery and solar capacity grows across our network, it’s a model we intend to roll out further.

This is what affordable charging looks like in practice.