Axle Energy

Axle Energy is a London-based energy flexibility startup that connects electric vehicles (EVs) and home energy devices to electricity markets. Founded in early 2023 by Karl Bach and Archy de Berker, Axle's software acts as 'virtual wires' to optimize the combined flexibility of home energy devices. The company's technology dynamically provides flexibility to the electricity grid and shifts energy usage to times when it's cheapest and most environmentally friendly. Axle's API integrates with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and energy suppliers, enabling these businesses to lower their residential customers' energy bills by over 25% while increasing the grid's capacity to transition toward a renewable future. The company's solution allows energy suppliers and hardware manufacturers to monetize the flexibility of home energy devices, reducing costs and emissions while improving grid stability. Axle's technology has the potential to replace significant fossil fuel power generation; for instance, the collective flexibility potential from EVs on UK roads today could replace the country's largest gas power plant.

Key customers and partnerships

Axle Energy has partnered with GivEnergy, a battery storage company, to offer a service called "GivBack." This scheme allows GivEnergy battery owners to export excess energy from their batteries when the grid is strained, earning up to GBP 2.10 per kWh. The partnership began operating in November 2023. Axle's software has been integrated with various energy suppliers and technology companies participating in the UK's Demand Flexibility Service, including British Gas, EDF, E.ON Next Energy Ltd, Octopus Energy, and OVO Energy. In December 2023, during a live event where electricity demand was elevated due to cold weather, Axle's systems responded to the Electricity Supply Operator's call for 550 MW of power, demonstrating the practical application of their technology in grid stabilization.