Grid Connection Delays Threaten EV Rollout – Hydrogen Power Can Bridge the Gap

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Recent research from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reveals a critical threat to the UK’s electric vehicle transition: grid connection delays of up to 15 years. With phase-out dates for fossil fuel vehicles fast approaching – 2035 for vans and HGVs under 26 tonnes, and 2040 for all new HGVs – operators face major roadblocks in deploying electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. 

Without fast, reliable access to power, commercial EV adoption stalls. The current pace of grid upgrades cannot keep up with demand, and many businesses are left unable to install the charging capacity they need. 

Hydrogen-powered EV charging: clean, flexible, available now 

GeoPura’s Hydrogen Power Unit (HPU) offers a practical, zero-emission solution to this growing challenge. These mobile hydrogen generators deliver reliable, off-grid power for EV charging infrastructure and crucially, they work alongside existing grid connections and battery storage systems. 

By integrating seamlessly with the grid and energy storage, the HPU provides additional peak power during high-demand charging periods. It ensures sites can deliver the fast charging capacity required by electric vehicles, even when grid supply is limited. 

The system uses built-in batteries to optimise performance, and always prioritises the cleanest and most efficient energy source, drawing on grid power when available, using stored battery energy when suitable, and activating the hydrogen generator to meet higher loads. This intelligent energy management makes hydrogen-powered EV charging both efficient and scalable. 

Case Study: Cairn Lodge Services

Cairn Lodge Services on the M74 needed to install rapid EV chargers but didn’t have sufficient grid capacity. Rather than wait years for an upgrade, the site deployed a GeoPura HPU to supply the necessary power immediately. 

The unit enables up to 75kW charging at multiple points, with zero tailpipe emissions. It will remain in place until the permanent grid upgrade takes place, allowing Cairn Lodge to deliver a much-needed EV charging service in the meantime. The HPU works alongside the limited grid connection, using its built-in batteries to manage peak loads and maintain 24/7 availability. 

Case study: Ministry of Defence

The Ministry of Defence is rolling out electric vehicles across multiple sites, many of which are located in areas with restricted grid access. GeoPura’s HPU was deployed to power EV chargers and provide additional site power where required. 

With its built-in batteries and flexible deployment model, the HPU ensures continuous charging capacity and supports wider decarbonisation goals. It also allows for rapid redeployment between sites, making it a valuable tool for military-grade reliability in clean energy supply. 

The Solution to Grid Constraints for EV Charging

EV charging infrastructure can’t wait for grid upgrades. Businesses, local authorities, and fleet operators need reliable, clean energy now – especially in grid-constrained locations. 

GeoPura’s hydrogen-powered generators provide the missing link. They enable rapid deployment of EV charging points, reduce reliance on diesel generators, and support the UK’s zero-emission vehicle targets. Whether used as a temporary solution or as part of a long-term energy strategy, the HPU delivers flexible, zero-emission power where and when it’s needed. 

Hydrogen is not a future fallback – it’s a current, proven solution to grid bottlenecks in EV charging. 

Need reliable EV charging without waiting for a grid connection? Get in touch today and speak to one of our specialist team.

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EV Charging infrastructure

GeoPura’s HPU offers a revolutionary solution to unlocking electrical grid capacity, ensuring seamless, sustainable charging for EVs. Our zero-emission technology combines HPUs with EV charging points, providing a scalable solution that bypasses grid constraints, allowing infrastructure providers to stablish EV charging points even in areas where grid upgrades are delayed or not feasible.