Helen, a leading Finnish energy company, has taken significant strides in integrating electric vehicle (EV) charging into its core operations, aligning with its ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. In collaboration with eMabler, a cutting-edge technology provider, Helen has transformed its EV charging operations by optimizing customer experiences, leveraging data, and streamlining business processes.
eMobility at the Core of Helen’s Strategy
For over a decade, Helen has been a key player in the eMobility sector, focusing on public and home charging. Managing approximately 800 public charging points—80% of which are located in the capital region—and thousands of home charging points, Helen has emphasized sustainability by using only wind power for public charging.
Since 2020, Helen has collaborated with eMabler to enhance customer engagement and improve service delivery. eMabler's flexible platform allowed Helen to transition from a traditional, off-the-shelf approach to a more customized, data-driven solution, enabling better analysis of customer behavior and tailored offerings.
Helen's partnership with eMabler was part of a larger initiative to gain better control over customer data and behavior. By leveraging eMabler’s flexible platform, Helen found new opportunities for cross-selling and upselling within their existing systems. This approach allowed them to tailor offerings based on data-proven needs, marking a significant step forward in customer engagement.
''Even though we have been in the eMobility sector for a while, it was as new era for us as well. Coming from an off-the-shelf solution to DIY mode, it was eMablers game-changing solution that pushed and supported us in this transition.'' - Päivi Linteri, Helen’s eMobility Product Development Manager
Streamlined Operations with eMabler's Platform
Through eMabler's robust platform, Helen can efficiently manage users, chargers, and pricing within its existing management portal. This integration has streamlined operations and improved data accessibility.
''eMabler's knowledge on these migrations were vital at this stage. The open data and APIs were one of the main reasons of our selection, as well as the hands-on support, whenever needed.” - Päivi Linteri, Helen
Despite some ambitious scheduling, Helen successfully launched what Linteri describes as "the most mature platform at that time possible." The flexibility of eMabler's platform allowed Helen to incorporate their own critical developments during the transition, ensuring that everything aligned with their unique operational needs.
Helen’s “Oma Helen” application remains central to their operations, encompassing electricity consumption, solar production, and now EV charging.
By integrating new charging data directly into their existing system, Helen avoided the need for external applications or interfaces. This real-time data allows for both short- and long-term strategic planning, enhancing their ability to adapt to customer needs and market changes.
Helen is the market leader for public charging in Helsinki, and AFIR (Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation) requires an easy way for unregistered customers to pay for their charging. To facilitate convenient charging for unregistered users, Helen has implemented eMabler's Express Ad Hoc payment solution. This user-friendly QR-code-based payment method allows customers to easily pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or credit card.
Insights for Future Growth
Helen's transition to real-time data has revolutionized its operations, enabling quicker, more informed decisions.
“The WOW factor for me is being able to run a business with up-to-date data, and make my decisions based on real-time data. I have fresh data and I can see the kWh, euros, revenues, and charging success percentage. So, definitely quicker than the previous 30-day interval.” - Päivi Linteri, Helen
Helen values eMabler's ability to consolidate all key data points into one platform, ensuring future-proof operations in the eMobility sector. This capability has provided Helen with critical insights, allowing them to plan for growth and adapt to evolving market trends.
The latest developments have shifted Helen's perspective, offering vital information about the direction of the eMobility market. Helen’s goal is to maintain its position as a major player in the capital city region, aiming to expand its charging infrastructure and enhance app features for its customers.
''The development is in our hands and with eMabler's flexibility we can get there.” Päivi sums up.
Driving the Energy Transition
"Energy companies are well-positioned to provide comprehensive EV charging services. By integrating charging solutions with existing systems and prioritizing customer satisfaction, we can accelerate the energy transition." - Juha Stenberg, CEO of eMabler
Helen's collaboration with eMabler exemplifies the power of partnerships in integrating EV charging into the broader energy ecosystem. As the demand for electric mobility continues to soar, such collaborations will shape the future of sustainable mobility.
About Helen
Helen is a leading energy company in Finland, providing electricity, district heating, and district cooling solutions to over 550,000 customers. Helen is committed to sustainable energy production and aims to achieve 100% carbon neutrality in our operations. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Helen strives to offer reliable and efficient energy services.
