A second life for EV batteries, clean energy for communities

Waymo has launched a program with B2U Storage Solutions to repurpose retired electric vehicle batteries for clean energy storage in communities where its autonomous fleet operates. The initiative aims to extend the lifecycle of EV batteries beyond their use in vehicles, redirecting them to support local electricity grids. This approach aligns with Waymo’s maintenance program, which already extends vehicle durability, by ensuring batteries serve a secondary purpose in energy infrastructure. The collaboration focuses on deploying hundreds of megawatts of storage capacity across grids in Texas and California, where Waymo maintains a significant operational presence.

B2U Storage Solutions, a leader in large-scale energy storage, will integrate Waymo’s retired EV batteries into grid-scale systems using patented technology. These systems store surplus renewable energy generated during midday peaks and release it during periods of high demand, enhancing grid stability. The partnership addresses the growing need for battery storage as renewable energy adoption accelerates, particularly in states like California and Texas, which are leading in clean energy capacity. By repurposing EV batteries, the initiative bridges gaps between renewable energy production and community energy needs.

The first deployments will target Texas and California, where Waymo operates a robust public service and renewable energy infrastructure is expanding rapidly. California averaged 6.1 hours of 100% clean power daily in 2026, while Texas leads the nation in new solar capacity. Expanding storage capacity is critical to sustaining this growth, and Waymo’s partnership with B2U directly supports these efforts by providing additional grid resilience. The initiative underscores the importance of circular economy principles in the automotive and energy sectors.

Waymo’s Head of Sustainability & Environment, Adam Lenz, emphasized the broader impact of the program: “Our shared fleet of EVs provides a massive opportunity to support the growth of clean energy on the electricity grid while expanding the circular economy.” Freeman Hall, CEO of B2U Storage Solutions, added that the agreement marks a milestone in repurposing EV batteries for grid stability, monetizing their full potential as demand for energy continues to rise.