PG&E Expands V2X Program to Include 10 EV Models
Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) announced on August 24 the expansion of its vehicle-to-everything (V2X) bidirectional charging program, adding 10 electric vehicle models eligible to participate in power feedback. The newly included models are the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Cadillac Celestiq, Escalade IQL from General Motors, as well as the previous-generation Nissan Leaf, Volvo EX90, Polestar 3, Kia EV9, and Kia EV6. The Ford F-150 Lightning and Tesla Cybertruck were already part of the program.
PG&E stated that this expansion aims to allow more EV owners to use bidirectional charging technology to feed stored power back to the grid or their homes, thereby reducing energy costs and earning revenue. PG&E’s Director of Clean Energy Transportation said, 'This expansion is all about choice. By broadening the mix of eligible vehicles and chargers, we're helping our customers access this valuable technology, turning their EV into a home backup and a grid asset.'
Partnerships and Charging Equipment Requirements
PG&E is partnering with Bidirectional Energy, a bidirectional energy management company, and PowerFlex, a charging solutions provider, to integrate a platform connecting EVs to the grid and homes. Participants in the program must equip their vehicles with specific charging devices. For example, the Tesla Cybertruck can feed power back to the grid using Tesla’s Universal Wall Connector combined with its Powershare Gateway system. General Motors models require the PowerShift charger, while the Kia EV9 and EV6 need the Wallbox Quasar 2 charger.
Incentive Programs and Participation Requirements
PG&E is offering residential customers up to $2,500 in incentives for V2X equipment installation, with customers in disadvantaged communities eligible for up to $3,000. Business customers can receive up to $4,500, while those in disadvantaged communities may qualify for up to $5,000. The first 250 participants will receive an additional $1,500 as an early adopter incentive. The enrollment period for the program runs through June 2027.
PG&E noted that participants can charge their EVs during periods of lower electricity rates and feed power back to the grid during peak demand, reducing household energy expenses. If the value of the power fed back exceeds the cost of electricity consumed by the home, customers may even achieve net earnings. PG&E’s electricity rates vary hourly, with feedback prices on August 23 ranging from 5 cents to 50 cents per kilowatt-hour, depending on grid demand, transmission costs, and weather conditions.
Technological Applications and Future Outlook
PG&E emphasized that V2X technology can not only alleviate grid strain during peak demand but also provide backup power to homes during outages. With over 1.5 million EVs already on the road in California, PG&E’s expanded program is seen as a significant milestone in promoting the adoption of bidirectional charging. While V2X technology remains in the pilot phase, the inclusion of more vehicle models and charging equipment is expected to enhance grid resilience and energy efficiency in the future.
PG&E stressed that this program benefits not only EV owners but also contributes to the stability of the overall grid. As more customers participate, the applications of V2X technology will become more diverse, offering new solutions for California’s energy transition.
