Episode 52 - Beyond Kilowatt-Hours: Flexibility as the Next Value Pool for CPOs

When EV Charging Becomes Part Of The Energy System

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For years, the EV charging business was built around a simple model: buy electricity, sell kilowatt-hours, and expand charging infrastructure. But as charging networks grow, grid capacity tightens, and energy markets become more dynamic, that model is rapidly evolving.

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The next phase of EV charging will be defined by flexibility. Charge Point Operators (CPOs) are no longer just managing charging sessions—they are increasingly managing energy assets that can support the grid, optimize costs, and unlock entirely new revenue streams

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In this episode of the FLEXECHARGE podcast, Christophe speaks with Lars Herre, Flexibility Portfolio Lead at Fortum, to explore how demand response, grid flexibility, vehicle-to-grid (V2G), and battery storage are reshaping the role of EV charging infrastructure. Together, they discuss why flexibility may become one of the most important competitive advantages for CPOs over the coming decade.

What You Will Learn in This Episode

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This episode is packed with practical insights for CPOs, energy professionals, and charging infrastructure operators preparing for the next phase of electrification.

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Key learnings include:

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• Why EV smart charging is evolving beyond selling electricity and becoming an active part of the energy system
• How demand response and grid flexibility can help CPOs unlock new revenue streams while supporting grid stability
• Why vehicle-to-grid (V2G) is moving from pilot projects to commercial deployments across Europe
• How battery energy storage systems (BESS) can strengthen charging site economics while enabling participation in flexibility markets
• Why CPOs should view charging infrastructure as a strategic energy asset rather than a passive electricity load
• How standardization, forecasting, and intelligent load management will become critical capabilities for future charging networks