The signal
Several automakers now sell vehicles that support bidirectional charging, and some utilities are running programs. But compatible home chargers are expensive and warranties and rules are still catching up.
Where it could lead
Millions of EVs parked most of the day hold a huge amount of stored energy. Tapping it could make homes more resilient and the grid cheaper to run.
Evidence that would strengthen the case
- Bidirectional charging becomes standard on mainstream EVs
- Affordable home chargers and simple utility sign-up programs
- Automakers guarantee battery warranties aren’t affected
What could prevent it
- Owners worry about battery wear and opt out
- Utility interconnection rules stay complex and slow
- Cheap home batteries do the same job more simply