A new initiative, the V2VNY project, aims to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) charging by testing vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, specifically using lower-cost alternating current (AC) chargers. Unlike the existing direct current (DC) charging, which is more expensive and has been limited to CHAdeMO technology, the V2VNY project focuses on AC bi-directional chargers that are more suitable for workplace and domestic environments. This project seeks to demonstrate how businesses and EV owners can lower energy costs and reduce pressure on the national grid by allowing EVs to both charge from and send energy back to the grid, especially during peak demand times.
The concept of vehicle-to-grid charging represents a broader vision of leveraging the growing number of EVs on UK roads as mobile energy storage units. By charging EVs during low-cost, off-peak hours and discharging stored energy back to the grid during high-cost, peak hours, significant savings can be made by fleet owners and businesses, while also contributing to grid stability. Additionally, the V2VNY project is exploring V2X (vehicle-to-everything) technology, allowing EVs to supply energy not just to the grid but also to buildings and other vehicles. This expansion of renewable energy storage solutions through EVs is viewed by experts as key to reducing the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels and advancing toward its net-zero goals.
Supported by various partners, including Hangar 19, CrowdCharge, and JLR, the V2VNY project began in September 2024 and will run through March 2025. With funding from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, this initiative is part of the broader V2X Innovation Programme. By integrating AC V2G technology into more modern EVs and offering free chargers to participants, the project aims to show how EVs can act as distributed mini power plants, benefiting businesses, grid operators, and the UK’s overall energy efficiency.
