Local flexibility as critical infrastructure
Nov 19, 2025
As electrification accelerates across transport, housing, and industry, pressure on local power grids is increasing. While large-scale generation often dominates the conversation, many of the most immediate challenges appear closer to home.
Local grids were not designed for today’s load patterns. Electric vehicles charging simultaneously, new housing developments, and growing industrial demand create peaks that existing infrastructure struggles to absorb. Reinforcing these grids through traditional upgrades is costly and time-consuming.
Energy storage introduces a different approach. By adding flexible capacity close to where electricity is consumed, battery systems can respond instantly to changes in demand. This reduces stress on substations and feeders during peak hours and helps avoid local bottlenecks.
Beyond peak management, local flexibility supports resilience. Storage systems can stabilise voltage, support frequency, and provide backup capacity during disturbances. For communities, this means fewer outages and greater confidence that electrification plans can move forward without compromising reliability.
As energy systems become more decentralised, flexibility is no longer a supplementary feature. It is a core part of modern infrastructure, enabling grids to adapt continuously while maintaining stability and safety.