Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology – sometimes called Vehicle-to-Load or V2L – is an exciting new way for our electric vehicles to interact with the power grid, and potentially power our homes. It has the potential to save electricity users money, too, by allowing use of power from the grid when it is plentiful and cheap, and avoiding times when the grid is stressed, and power is more expensive.
Traditionally, vehicles have only drawn energy from the grid, but with V2G, they can send energy back to it. This bidirectional flow of electricity offers promising benefits for energy management, grid stability, and renewable energy integration.
Using EV batteries to support the grid
At its core, V2G enables electric vehicles to act as mobile energy storage units. When EVs are plugged in, not only can they recharge their batteries, but they can also discharge stored energy back to the grid when needed. This is particularly useful during peak demand times, when the grid is under the most strain. Instead of relying solely on traditional power plants to meet surges in demand, utilities can draw on energy stored in EV batteries, helping to stabilize the grid and prevent blackouts.
If you are an EV owner, keen to know when V2G is coming to the market, drop us a note here, and we’ll keep you updated.
The potential of V2G extends beyond simple energy transfer. It plays a critical role in supporting the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which are inherently variable. For example, when solar panels generate excess energy during the day, that surplus can be stored in EV batteries. Later, during the evening when solar production drops, that energy can be fed back into the grid to meet demand. This helps smooth out fluctuations in energy supply and supports a more resilient, sustainable energy system.
Savings to be enjoyed
V2G can also offer financial incentives to EV owners. By participating in V2G programmes, individuals or fleet operators can be compensated for the energy they supply to the grid. This turns EVs into revenue-generating assets, rather than just transportation tools. In a broader sense, V2G supports a more decentralized energy model, where energy is not just produced by large utilities but also by millions of connected vehicles and homes.
Technically, implementing V2G requires smart charging infrastructure and advanced communication systems. Chargers must be capable of bidirectional power flow, and vehicles need onboard systems that can safely manage battery discharge. Additionally, coordination with grid operators is essential to ensure that energy is provided at the right times and in the right amounts.
There have already been trials of V2G in the UK, and several EV charger manufacturers are now working behind the scenes on the development of chargers that will allow cars to feed the building they are attached to. Utility providers, such as Octopus, will also be keen to use V2G to shift demand – and if you’re an electric vehicle user, you might well benefit financially, too.
At The Full EV, we are in contact with those manufacturers, and are keeping a keen eye on V2G developments. If you would like to be kept up to date with developments, fill in our contact form, mentioning your interest in V2G, and we will be sure to stay in touch with you.
