Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology offers electrical contractors a chance to help balance electricity demand, support the energy transition and gain a new revenue stream.
InstallerELECTRIC’S Rob Shepherd explains why understanding service capacity, load management, regulatory frameworks and best practice will maximise the opportunities it offers.
V2G technology represents a transformative shift in the way electricity is generated, stored and distributed. By allowing electric vehicles (EVs) to not only draw power from the grid but also return electricity to it during peak demand periods, V2G systems can provide flexible, distributed energy storage that benefits both consumers and the wider energy network. V2G technology represents a fundamental evolution in how electricity networks operate and how energy services are delivered.
Twice as nice
At its core, V2G relies on bidirectional charging technology. Unlike conventional chargers, which only transfer electricity from the grid to the vehicle, bidirectional chargers can draw electricity from an EV’s battery and feed it back into the grid when required. This process allows the vehicle to act as a mobile energy storage unit, offering capacity to support local distribution networks, reduce strain during peak hours and even provide ancillary services such as frequency regulation.
Service capacity is one of the primary technical considerations when working with V2G. It is vital to assess the cumulative capacity of connected EVs and the available grid infrastructure to ensure that the system can safely and efficiently manage bidirectional flows.
The charging capacity of individual vehicles varies significantly depending on battery size, state of the charge and the charging equipment. When combined across multiple vehicles in a residential, commercial or fleet situation, systems must optimise load without exceeding the ratings of local transformers, switchgear and cabling. This requires a detailed understanding of load profiles, peak usage times and expected energy export from vehicles.
Go with the flow
Load management is intrinsically linked to service capacity. V2G systems require sophisticated energy management protocols to coordinate when vehicles charge and discharge energy. Smart charging platforms, often integrated with cloud-based monitoring tools, allowing energy flows to operate in alignment with grid demand.
Effective load management ensures that energy is drawn from EVs when it is most valuable to the network while protecting the longevity of vehicle batteries. Adopting these systems involves integrating software with hardware while maintaining compliance with industry standards such as the IEC 61851 series for EV charging and ISO 15118 for communication between vehicle and grid.
Rules and regulations
Regulatory frameworks form a crucial layer in the deployment of V2G. Electrical contractors must navigate requirements from both Ofgem and BS 7671 – the 18th Edition of the Wiring Regulations. Ofgem’s rules around demand side response and distributed energy resources influence how V2G systems can participate in grid balancing and receive financial incentives.
Compliance with BS 7671 ensures that installations meet safety and operational standards, particularly given the bidirectional nature of electricity flow. It is also necessary to remain aware of local network operator requirements, which may impose additional technical constraints to ensure grid stability and prevent overloading. Comprehensive site assessments include reviewing existing electrical infrastructure, estimating peak loads and identifying potential points of network stress.
Communication with network operators is essential to coordinate V2G integration and ensure that installations support broader grid objectives. Additionally, contractors should educate clients on operational considerations such as battery wear, potential cost savings and participation in demand-side response schemes. By providing both technical expertise and guidance on system optimisation, contractors can position themselves as trusted advisors in a rapidly evolving energy market.
Get with the program
The opportunities to get involved with this emerging technology are expanding. Several distribution network operators offer funding or rebates for V2G compatible infrastructure, while manufacturers increasingly support bidirectional charging in new EV models.
2025 saw a major expansion of V2G pilots and commercial deployments in the UK, with a notable milestone being Octopus Energy and BYD launching the first consumer focused V2G bundle. This offering combined free home charging through smart tariffs with bidirectional charging capability using the BYD Dolphin EV. Meanwhile, the Vehicle-to-Volume eNergy Yield (V2VNY) project focuses on using lower cost, bidirectional AC chargers to make V2G solutions more affordable, scalable and commercially viable for fleets, workplaces and other non-domestic environments.
Participating in pilot projects can provide valuable experience in system integration and remote monitoring and support, opening avenues for recurring revenue through maintenance and energy management services. Contractors can also leverage government backed schemes, such as the UK’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grants, to make V2G installations more attractive to residential and commercial clients.
Train to gain
Training is a key element in V2G deployment. While traditional EV charging knowledge provides a foundation, V2G introduces additional complexity in terms of electrical design, communication protocols and energy management. Certified training courses covering bidirectional charging, IEC and ISO standards and software integration are becoming more widely available.
Investing in professional development allows individuals to stand out in a competitive market by equipping them with the latest skills and knowledge needed for the rapidly evolving energy sector. For those already working with V2G systems, continuous learning ensures they can design, install and maintain these systems in compliance with evolving industry standards and increase their value to clients.
Playing a part
V2G is at the forefront of smart energy transition. For electrical contractors, it offers technical challenges and commercial opportunities, alongside a contribution to the development of a more resilient and sustainable energy system. While the learning curve can be steep, the potential rewards are significant and engagement with pilots and incentive programs will be essential for those seeking to help unlock the full potential of V2G.
