Electric Era, a developer of AI-driven storage solutions for EV fast charging, has launched a turnkey fast charging platform designed specifically for the convenience store sector.

Electric Era says its PowerNode Platform enables convenience stores to meet the eligibility requirements for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program without expensive grid upgrades or utility demand charges.

The PowerNode Platform is designed to predict and manage load, and uses battery storage to optimize charging, taking advantage of the most advantageous utility tariffs. The company says it is capable of delivering 100 charging sessions per day at a standard convenience store.

Following a recent technology demonstration with the Electric Power Research Institute, Electric Era secured investment from Proeza Ventures, Blackhorn Ventures, Liquid 2 Ventures, and previous strategic investors including Remus Capital.

Many see convenience stores, many of which are also gas stations, as likely locations for DC fast charging. Fortune Business Insights estimates that some 28,000 convenience stores will offer charging by 2030.

“The PowerNode Platform is…the ideal choice for convenience stores—particularly those looking to qualify for NEVI grants,” said Quincy Lee, Electric Era founder and CEO. “The PowerNode Platform reduces grid requirements and demand charges by 3 times, while supporting the fastest charging speeds, allowing convenience stores to replicate the gas station experience while optimizing revenue and minimizing the costs of fast charging.”

“Many of the 116,000 convenience stores across the country are planning to install EV fast charging capabilities in the coming decade using battery-supported EV fast charging technologies like the PowerNode Platform,” said Joe Montana, Liquid 2 Ventures founder and General Partner.

Source: Electric Era