Revel Showcases Leadership in Grid-Optimized Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging at New Williamsburg Superhub, Scaling Impact on NYC's Energy Transition
The Williamsburg facility represents the latest milestone in Revel's partnership with SmartKit ®, a virtual power plant (VPP) software developed by Logical Buildings. By strategically shifting the timing of vehicle charging sessions, Revel helps alleviate pressure on the grid during peak hours — when electricity is both dirtiest and most expensive — while generating revenue through utility-provided Demand Response incentives.
As New York City accelerates toward a carbon-free grid under its ambitious climate goals, grid-interactive electric vehicle infrastructure will be critical. Charging intelligently, particularly during extreme weather and demand spikes, reduces emissions from peaker plants — which can emit twice as much CO₂ and 20 times more NOₓ than traditional power sources.
Revel's grid-responsive operations were put to the test as New York City kicked off the 2025 Demand Response season with three consecutive curtailment events from June 23 to June 25, many lasting 10+ hours each. This sustained effort, which required Revel to dynamically schedule charging loads across its infrastructure, played a key role in supporting grid stability during an unprecedented strain on the electric system due to extreme heat with temperatures soaring in the triple digits on June 24.
'Our Williamsburg Superhub proves that EV infrastructure can be a grid asset, not a strain, by dynamically responding to grid stress signals,' said Paul Suhey, Revel COO & Co-Founder. 'As electricity demand rises with electrification and continued extreme heat events, smart charging plays a crucial role in helping New York build a resilient, decarbonized future.'
The severity of the recent grid stress cannot be overstated. On Tuesday, June 24, the utility provider in New York and Westchester forecasted electricity usage to reach 100.71% of the system peak — a rare and urgent grid stressor. (By comparison, Demand Response events are typically triggered when demand hits just 92% of peak capacity). Additionally, the New York Independent System Operator (NYISO) reported that peak electricity demand reached 31,857 megawatts (MW) during the three-day heat wave—the highest level recorded since 2016. 1 During these critical events Revel's actions provided immediate and measurable grid-positive relief.
At its Williamsburg Superhub, which houses 15 public EV charging stalls capable of fully charging a vehicle in 20 minutes or less, Revel curtailed 250 kilowatts of load, contributing to avoided emissions from fossil fuel peaker plants. This targeted load reduction is expected to yield tens of thousands in grid services revenue — while delivering instantaneous and impactful resiliency for the local power grid.
'Revel is showing how electric mobility companies can actively participate in electric load management,' said David Klatt, President of Logical Buildings. 'By using SmartKit, Revel is turning electric load into flexible, responsive capacity — a replicable model for cities looking to decarbonize while electrifying. As cities decarbonize, electric use will rise—and this new electric demand needs to be grid-interactive.'
The Revel–SmartKit ® partnership first launched in 2021 with the company's electric moped fleet and has now evolved into a powerful model for full-scale EV infrastructure. With the new Williamsburg Superhub online and integrated into New York's Demand Response programs, Revel is actively shaping the next phase of grid flexibility and reliability.
About Revel
Revel is a Brooklyn-born transportation company that's electrifying cities through charging infrastructure and shared electric vehicle fleets. Through the Revel app, users can rent electric mopeds, sign up for monthly eBike subscriptions, hail an electric car ride or find fast-charging stations compatible with any brand of EV. Revel prides itself on its total rejection of the gig economy and its collaborative approach with local governments. Founded in 2018, the company now operates in four New York City boroughs, Washington, D.C., Miami, Florida, and San Francisco, California. To learn more, visit gorevel.com and follow @_gorevel on Twitter.
About Logical Buildings
Logical Buildings is a leading sustainability and virtual power plant software provider transforming buildings into smart, grid-responsive assets. Its flagship platforms — SmartKit AI ® and GridRewards™ — enable users to cut carbon, reduce costs, and earn revenue by optimizing electricity use. Learn more at logicalbuildings.com.
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