Waymo B2U Repurpose Robotaxi Batteries for Grid Storage
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- Waymo partners with B2U Storage Solutions to repurpose retired robotaxi lithium‑ion battery packs for grid‑connected energy storage projects in California and Texas.
- The repurposed batteries will store excess renewable electricity during low‑demand periods and discharge during peak demand, helping stabilize the grid.
- B2U says its technology enables the batteries to operate safely and efficiently as stationary storage for several more years before they are finally recycled.
- The partnership could transition thousands of retired EV batteries from transportation to the power sector, lowering costs versus building storage from new battery materials.
- Freeman Hall says extending battery use monetizes their full potential and provides crucial grid stability; Waymo’s Adam Lenz adds the repurposed batteries will deliver economic and environmental value to communities after retirement.
Why it matters: Grid operators and California/Texas communities gain cheaper, flexible storage while Waymo extracts additional revenue; thousands of retired robotaxi batteries will be diverted from waste, boosting grid stability and reducing new‑battery demand.
