Like several other companies, Instagrid is supported by Leonard as part of its CATALYST program, which enables mature solutions to optimize their projects by deploying them on work sites in collaboration with VINCI Group operational teams.
Addressing environmental challenges and ensuring site safety are two major priorities in the construction and infrastructure sectors. For operations managers, the goal is to reduce CO₂ emissions, lower energy consumption, and also optimize working environments in order to minimize accident risks and sources of discomfort.
A challenge taken up by two former Bosch engineers, who founded Instagrid in 2018 — a German start-up that is now B Corp certified.
“We develop lightweight, easily transportable batteries specifically designed to meet the constraints of construction sites, whether in outdoor environments or enclosed spaces.” explains Stéphanie Balay, Marketing Director.
Instagrid’s secret sauce? A unique technological architecture based on a stack of micro‑inverters, combining miniaturization with high power output. Although the Instagrid One model weighs only 20 kg, it delivers an output power of 18,000 W and performance comparable to the electric grid. The battery can therefore power all types of construction equipment, even the most power‑hungry. Another advantage: it can be recharged in less than three hours using a standard 230‑volt socket.
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In 2022, Instagrid joined Leonard’s CATALYST program. “This support enabled us to raise awareness of and develop our solution across VINCI’s various business lines. Since then, we have deployed around 500 units on a large number of Group worksites.” emphasizes Stéphanie Balay.
A collaboration with ETF, a Group company specializing in railway works.
Among the early adopters is ETF, a company specializing in railway works, whose construction sites involve numerous welding operations.
“Thanks to its ultra‑compact format and light weight, the battery can be carried with one hand and connected anywhere on a worksite. It significantly limits the need for cabling, thereby reducing the risk of falls. Unlike thermal generators, which are extremely noisy, the unit is completely silent, greatly improving our operators’ working comfort.” comments Gilles Mercier, ETF’s Quality, Safety and Environment Manager.
Another benefit of using electric batteries, of course, lies in environmental considerations.
“When compared with a thermal generator of equivalent power, Instagrid One delivers greenhouse gas emission savings of around 94% over its entire life cycle.” notes Stéphanie Balay.
A benefit that site managers can monitor at any time via a mobile application providing real‑time information on the batteries’ location on the worksite, their state of charge and their energy consumption.
In addition to the energy benefits, there is also an economic dimension: no fuel expenses, significantly reduced maintenance requirements… and, for site managers, an 80% reduction in operating costs.
The next step is now to achieve wider adoption, which the gradual tightening of environmental regulations could help accelerate on construction sites.
Key figures:
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Instagrid One battery weight: 20 kg
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Output power: 18,000 W
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Charging time: Less than 3 hours using a standard 230‑volt socket
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Greenhouse gas emissions reduction: Up to 94% compared with an equivalent thermal generator over its entire life cycle
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Operating cost reduction: Up to 80% for site managers
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Number of units deployed: Around 500 across VINCI Group worksites since 2022
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Environmental benefits: No fuel consumption, reduced noise pollution, and lower risk of falls thanks to reduced cabling.
