Key facts
- General Motors is releasing a software update enabling some U.S. EV owners to sell power back to the electric grid.
- This feature expands GM's existing vehicle-to-home energy system.
- Owners could sell power during high demand periods, with GM taking a share of the revenue.
- GM is in talks with approximately 10 utilities for vehicle-to-grid access.
- Commercial rollout is anticipated in the coming months, beginning in California and Texas.
- GM is also piloting vehicle-to-grid technology with DTE Energy in Michigan.
General Motors is launching a software update that will allow owners of certain U.S. electric vehicles to sell power back to the electric grid. This initiative expands the capabilities of GM's existing vehicle-to-home energy system, which currently enables EVs to power homes during outages. The new feature allows owners to feed electricity to the grid during times of high demand, potentially earning revenue, with GM receiving a share of these payments. The company is actively discussing this vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capability with approximately ten utilities, aiming for a commercial rollout in the next few months, initially in California and Texas. A pilot program involving 30 GM employees is underway in Michigan in partnership with DTE Energy. However, utilities have been cautious about adopting V2G technology due to the required investments and uncertainties surrounding its widespread use and user adoption. Automakers like GM and Ford are increasingly exploring energy sector opportunities, inspired by Tesla's ventures in this space.