Key facts
- Electric vehicles can serve as backup power sources for homes during blackouts.
- Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology enables EVs to send electricity back to the power grid.
- V2G deployment in Europe could save up to €22 billion annually by 2040.
- Volkswagen aims to launch a V2G service in Germany in late 2026, with potential annual earnings of €700-€900 for owners.
- Several automakers are developing or have announced plans for V2G capabilities in their electric models.
- The technology requires specialized bidirectional chargers and installation, which can be costly.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly being positioned not just as transportation but as critical components of home energy resilience and grid stability, particularly as extreme weather events strain power supplies.
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology allows EVs to store surplus renewable energy and discharge it back to the grid when demand is high or during power outages. Research suggests that widespread V2G deployment across Europe could yield significant cost savings, estimated at up to €22 billion annually by 2040, by reducing the need for grid upgrades and preventing the curtailment of renewable energy. Germany, for instance, curtailed a substantial amount of renewable electricity in 2024, energy that V2G could have stored and utilized.
Automakers are integrating V2G capabilities into their business strategies, viewing it as a way to enhance the economic value proposition of EVs for consumers. Volkswagen, through its energy brand Elli, is preparing a comprehensive V2G package for German customers, including the vehicle, smart meter, bidirectional charger, and energy tariff. The company anticipates that under favorable market conditions, owners could earn between €700 and €900 annually by allowing their car batteries to participate in the energy market overnight.
Other manufacturers are also advancing V2G technology. Nissan plans to introduce affordable bidirectional charging in 2026, starting in the UK. Kia and Hyundai have reportedly launched V2G services for select models in the Netherlands, while Mercedes-Benz offers bidirectional charging for its electric GLC. In the UK, BYD has partnered with Octopus Energy to enable drivers to export power. Hardware for some of these initiatives, such as bidirectional chargers, is being supplied by European companies like Wallbox.
Beyond financial incentives, V2G-enabled EVs offer practical backup power solutions. A fully charged EV battery can power essential home appliances like refrigerators, medical equipment, and lighting for several days during an outage. Ford has introduced a system for its hybrid and electric pickup trucks in the US that allows owners to connect directly to their home's electrical meter, providing a potentially more cost-effective alternative to traditional generators.
Despite the growing potential, the widespread adoption of V2G technology faces challenges. Currently, only a limited number of EV models support bidirectional charging. The necessary hardware, including a bidirectional charger and professional installation, can add several thousand euros to the cost of an EV setup. Utilities must approve these installations, which can be a time-consuming process. Furthermore, some manufacturers are examining the potential impact of increased charge cycles on battery longevity and warranty coverage. Nevertheless, industry experts anticipate that V2G technology will become increasingly prevalent.