With multiple commercial projects already successfully deployed with its FE-15 bidirectional charger, Fermata Energy says it is adding a second commercial charger option with the FE-20 to meet the increasing demand for V2X installations. V2X includes vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-building (V2B) projects.

“Companies are facing increasing pressure to electrify their fleets,” says David Slutzky, CEO and founder of Fermata Energy. “Yet, at the same time they are looking for ways to manage costs. V2X bidirectional charging allows them to both electrify their fleet and earn revenue while their EVs are parked.”

Depending upon available local utility programmes, fleet operators with EVs, such as the Nissan Leaf, potentially can earn money in a couple of ways. They can be paid by their utility to send the energy stored in their EV fleet batteries to the grid or they are able to avoid peak demand charges by sending power to their building, which reduces the company’s electricity bill.

Fleet operators always control utilisation of their vehicles. The FE-20 pairs with Fermata Energy’s proprietary V2X software platform, which sends fleet operators advance notice about opportunities to earn revenue. The device is the first bidirectional charger to receive UL certification and the only one approved for use in the US by Nissan as not impacting the Nissan LEAF battery warranty.