Why Smart Charging is Fast Becoming the Smartest Business Move in Logistics
Photo Credit Welch Group
The Welch Group is setting a new benchmark for how logistics operators can turn electrification into an income stream, not a cost centre.
In collaboration with Optimo Energy, Welch Group is rolling out advanced energy management and smart charging technology across its depots. This isn’t just about powering trucks, it’s about powering profit.
Through Optimo’s platform, Welch can orchestrate vehicle charging, onsite solar, and battery storage to reduce energy costs and actively participate in the UK’s flexibility markets. In simple terms: when their trucks are parked, they’re earning.
“Fleet electrification has to stack up commercially from day one,” said Jamie Sands, Head of Solutions at Welch Group. “Our partnership with Optimo unlocks a completely new revenue stream through flexibility markets. When our trucks are parked and charging overnight, we’re now getting paid to help balance the grid.”
This kind of model turns the traditional fleet depot into a dynamic energy hub, capable of storing, managing, and trading power intelligently. Optimo’s forecasting and control platform ensures that the company’s participation in demand-response markets never interferes with day-to-day operations.
Optimo Energy’s CEO, Daniel Homoki Farkas, summed it up perfectly:
“Commercial fleet operators are sitting on one of the most valuable flexibility assets in the energy system, but until now they’ve had no way to monetise it without risking their core operations. This partnership proves the commercial model works.”
Why the Rest of the Industry Should Take Note
The Welch Optimo partnership is more than a clever energy play, it’s a glimpse into the future of logistics economics.
At ZeroMission, we’ve long said that fleet electrification only succeeds when it aligns with business performance. The real opportunity lies in integration: connecting vehicles, chargers, and depots into a unified energy and data ecosystem that not only reduces carbon but also generates value.
As energy markets evolve, fleets that can flex their demand, store excess energy, or support grid stability will find themselves with a competitive edge and a new revenue stream.
Welch Group has proven what’s possible: a logistics operator that earns while it charges.
For others in the industry, the message is clear, the smart fleet of the future doesn’t just move goods. It moves energy, money, and intelligence.
ZeroMission Insight:
Fleet Modernisation isn’t just about swapping diesel for electric, it’s about turning every vehicle, charger, and depot into a data driven business asset.
Ready to unlock your fleet’s hidden value?
Contact the ZeroMission team to explore how integrated energy management and FleetOps360° Fleet Modernisation insights can help your organisation earn, save, and scale smarter.