Smaller, distributed batteries could help the grid

Startups are placing small batteries in unexpected spots, from induction stoves to food carts and e-bike swap cabinets. These units avoid grid upgrades and permitting, and together could add tens of gigawatts of capacity.

• PopWheels runs about 50 battery-swap cabinets and 2,500 batteries in New York City
• Four PopWheels batteries supply 5 kWh, roughly a day of operation for many food carts
• Copper builds induction stoves with integrated batteries to cut electrical upgrade costs
• If every US stove shipped with a battery, it would add tens of gigawatts of power