Energy firms tie up to create UPI-like transaction network for EV users

Bengaluru, April 19

At least 20 energy companies have joined hands to create an alliance for an open energy network called the Unified Energy Interface (UEI), which is a unified payments interface (UPI)-like system for EV charging, the firms said in a statement on Friday.

The UEI will be linked to UPI to offer customers payment options through multiple bank accounts, Akhil Jayaprakash, co-founder of Pulse Energy, a member of the alliance, said.

The UEI is the recommended interoperability standard as per the Department of Science and Technology. Aimed at facilitating seamless payment and transaction interoperability within EV charging networks, the alliance will help address interoperability challenges pertaining to EV charging and grid demand response by partnering with electricity distribution companies (Discoms).

The alliance includes member companies like ChargeZone, Pulse Energy, Kazam, Sheru, Trinity and Turbo, etc. “As the transportation sector shifts towards greater electrification, it’s crucial to ensure that EV drivers can access charging infrastructure easily,” said Raj Kumar, Executive Director, Trinity.

Leading public policy think tanks and research organisations such as the Rocky Mountain Institute and the World Resources Institute, have also joined the consortium in an advisory capacity to advance the initiative. —Agencies