In the last few days, I have posted about the availability of a DC V2G wallbox from BMW in various European countries (🇦🇹🇧🇪🇩🇰🇫🇷 🇩🇪🇮🇹🇳🇱🇳🇴🇵🇹🇸🇪🇨🇭).

A similar DC product from Mercedes-Benz was also launched at the IAA motor show, with an energy contract from The Mobility House in 🇫🇷🇩🇪🇬🇧. The latter is already partnering with Renault in these markets to add the energy service to the car brand’s AC bidirectional EVs and the Mobilize verso+ charging point. In Sweden 🇸🇪, Volvo offers this AC bidirectional functionality for some models. In Great Britain 🇬🇧, Octopus Energy announced a package deal including the lease of an AC bidirectional-capable BYD Dolphin and a suitable charging point. Meanwhile, there are also various separate AC ‘V2G ready’ charging points and DC bidirectional chargers on the market, without a direct link to a specific car model or energy contract. Current and future compatibility and functionality may vary. Both AC and DC solutions will have their role, with prices for DC bidirectional chargers expected to fall even further (BMW’s competitive pricing sets the benchmark). And for both (and for vehicles), the completion of the postponed European grid codes could provide welcome clarity.

It is not surprising that the first bidirectional functionality available to consumers is offered in bundles. Car manufacturers want to ensure that the function works properly and that an energy provider takes care of the trading, settlement and billing.

Two years ago, I wrote for Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP) in “Enabling two-way communication: Principles for bidirectional charging of electric vehicles”, that building trust is important from the outset. Building on this, it is important to continue working on compatibility and interoperability. I believe these principles still apply:

🤝Build trust and establish common standards

A user must be in control, be informed and have decision-making power, assured that their EV will be ready when they need it.

Similarly, system operators and energy market players should be able to trust the contribution that EV batteries can make.

This principle of trust extends to EV battery warranties, allowing for bi-directional use cases. International standards and grid codes ensure that all cars and chargers can work together across all regions, delivering benefits to all users and grids.

🎯Get the prices right to guide charging and discharging

If prices reflect system conditions, V2G can align user benefits (lower prices) with system needs.

This includes time- and location-varying network tariffs. Policymakers should also ensure that users don’t pay double taxes on V2G flows.

⚖️Ensure equal access and treatment

In order to maximise the value of bidirectional charging for the energy system, it is important that distributed resources can participate in all energy markets that large resources have access to, such as wholesale energy and balancing and system services.