Is vehicle-to-grid charging practical for fleets in the UK?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are on the rise in the UK, with the impending 2035 petrol and diesel ban pushing households and businesses towards cleaner transport options. As EV sales and registrations continue to climb each year, the focus is shifting towards vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging and its potential to revolutionise the way we think about electricity.

V2G, or bi-directional charging, refers to the two-way flow of energy between the grid and EVs. This technology is set to play a crucial role in the integration of electric vehicles into our energy ecosystem. According to National Grid’s Future Energy Scenarios, V2G charging could provide up to 38GW of flexible power from 5.5 million EVs, covering the extra peak power demand expected in the UK by 2050.

At Drax Electric Vehicles, we view EVs as assets that can transform energy usage for organisations and boost sustainability efforts through V2G technology. Traditionally, fleet vehicles generate revenue only while in operation. However, V2G presents the exciting opportunity for fleets to earn income during their downtime as well.

EVs have the potential to act as mobile power stations by drawing power from the grid and sending it back when needed. With an increasing share of renewable energy sources in the energy mix, EVs can serve as stationary batteries, storing surplus power and contributing to grid stability and price control.

For fleets, V2G technology opens up a world of possibilities. With most vehicles sitting idle for over twelve hours a day, fleets can take advantage of charging during off-peak hours when energy prices are low or when renewable energy is abundant on the network. Bi-directional charging allows businesses to provide grid stability services and potentially earn additional revenue through V2G opportunities.

As an expert in EV charging and energy optimisation, we are well-equipped to support businesses across the UK in leveraging V2G technology. Through our insights and energy background, we can help fleets optimise their charging schedules for cost efficiency and explore the commercial viability of services like demand flexibility schemes.

While bi-directional charge points are currently available, they are not yet widespread or cost-effective enough to be widely adopted. However, as technology advances and prices become more competitive, V2G technology will become increasingly feasible for organisations with EV fleets.

We are actively assisting organisations in transitioning from traditional vehicles to EVs and developing strategies for future-proofed electrification. By testing innovative technologies like V2G, we are gaining valuable insights into the potential of these systems and laying the groundwork for the future of commercial energy.