That’s the idea behind Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G). It allows compatible electric vehicles to export stored energy back to the electricity grid through bidirectional charging technology.
Rather than being just a way to charge a vehicle, V2G can make an EV part of a wider energy system.
How does V2G work?
V2G uses bidirectional charging: electricity can flow both into and out of the vehicle’s battery.
A typical process looks like this:
- An EV charges and stores electricity in its battery.
- The energy system identifies a suitable opportunity to export electricity.
- A compatible bidirectional charger and vehicle send energy back to the grid.
- The vehicle retains the charge needed for its next journey, according to the agreed settings.
The process is coordinated through compatible hardware and software, with driver requirements and battery limits taken into account.
Why is V2G important?
V2G can help make EV batteries useful beyond transport.
Potential benefits include:
- Grid flexibility: Export stored energy when electricity demand or network conditions call for it.
- Renewable energy integration: Store electricity when renewable generation is plentiful and export it when needed.
- New value opportunities: Participate in eligible energy and flexibility markets.
- Energy management: Help businesses coordinate vehicle charging and energy use across their sites.
Actual benefits depend on market access, tariffs, vehicle compatibility, battery conditions and participation arrangements.
How does Electric Miles support V2G?
Electric Miles’ SmartFlex platform supports flexibility management, V2G trading and grid services.
It is designed to coordinate eligible EV charging and flexibility activity, including opportunities where compatible bidirectional vehicles and chargers can export energy.
This positions V2G within a broader flexibility strategy: smart charging can adjust electricity consumption, while V2G can also make stored energy available to the grid.
Explore Electric Miles V2G Trading and SmartFlex to learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Is V2G the same as smart charging?
No. Smart charging adjusts when or how quickly an EV charges. V2G adds the ability to send electricity from the vehicle’s battery back to the grid.
Can every electric vehicle support V2G?
No. Both the vehicle and charging equipment must support bidirectional charging.
Does V2G affect battery life?
Battery impact depends on factors such as charging behaviour, battery chemistry, temperature and how frequently energy is exported. Drivers should follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidance.
Can drivers earn money through V2G?
V2G can create opportunities to participate in energy or flexibility programmes, but payments depend on the programme, market conditions and eligibility.