Almost half of Australians consider using their electric vehicles as home batteries and selling excess energy back to the grid.
This is according to new research published by National Roads and Motorist's Association Inc (NMRA).
The survey, conducted in partnership with UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures and iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre, found 47% of respondents were interested in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, with the figure rising to 54% among current EV owners.
"With Australia's wholesale energy market so volatile, bi-directional charging could revolutionize how we view and use our cars," NRMA chief strategy officer Vivian Miles said.
The study revealed 85% of respondents park their vehicles at home during peak solar generating hours and evening grid demand periods.
The research accompanies the "V2G Trailblazers" report, which documents early adopters' experiences with the technology. Despite initial challenges including limited vehicle compatibility and complex installation processes, some users reported cost savings.
One trailblazer earned $500 during a two-hour energy price spike.
Dr. Scott Dwyer from the Institute of Sustainable Futures emphasised the significance of the research for scaling V2G technology in Australia.
"This has huge benefits – not only for householders, but for Australia's energy transition,” Dwyer said. “It will mean more renewables on the grid and more electric vehicles on the roads."
Early adopter Francis Clarke reported use of his EV's battery capacity, five times larger than a typical home battery, stating he intends to profit from energy price fluctuations.
According to the ARENA-funded National Roadmap for Bidirectional EV Charging, V2G technology could contribute almost $3 billion to Australia's energy system by 2050. The technology allows EVs to function as home batteries, storing energy for household use or selling back to the grid during peak demand.
The outlook appeared promising with new V2G-compatible vehicles and chargers entering the Australian market and regulatory changes streamlining the installation process.
Would you use your EV to power your home? Let us know in the comments.
