In a major boost for South Africa’s clean energy transition, local electric vehicle (EV) charging startup Zimi has secured R6 million ($320,000) in funding from the EEP Africa Trust Fund to develop vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology.
The innovative system enables EVs to feed power back into the community and the national grid. Also, it is one of the solutions to the country’s energy crisis.
Zimi was one of just 32 projects selected from over 530 applicants across Southern and East Africa by the clean energy financier. The grant will support the company’s ambitious plan to integrate bidirectional charging capabilities into South Africa’s EV infrastructure.
“V2G transforms electric vehicles into mobile power stations,” said Zimi CEO Michael Maas. “This technology can stabilize our grid, improve energy efficiency, and build resilience against load shedding.”
As rolling blackouts plague the nation, Zimi’s project offers a dual solution:
- Accelerating EV adoption
- Creating a decentralised network of energy storage assets.
By enabling EVs to discharge power during peak demand, the technology helps balance supply while providing backup power during outages.
The timing aligns with the South African launch of the Volvo EX90—one of the country’s first EVs. With this funding, Zimi aims to position South Africa at the forefront of smart energy innovation, turning the transportation sector into an active participant in the country’s energy future.
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