V2G
Vehicle-to-Grid Charging in New Zealand
Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is transforming how New Zealanders think about energy.
Turn your EV into more than a car
Vehicle-to-Grid, or V2G, allows a compatible electric vehicle to charge from the electricity system and send stored energy back when it is useful. With the right vehicle, two-way charger, electricity connection and energy service, an EV could help power a home or business, make better use of rooftop solar and support the local electricity network during periods of high demand.
V2G has progressed from theory to real-world trials in New Zealand. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, commonly known as EECA, is supporting trials in Queenstown and planning a larger urban trial covering homes, businesses and fleets. However, charger availability, vehicle compatibility and commercial electricity services remain limited.
What Is Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)?
V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) lets electric vehicles do more than just move. It’s a new kind of energy solution where your EV can store energy and send it back to your home or the grid. Your EV can charge as usual, but it can also send power back – helping you use stored energy when it matters most.
Welcome to bidirectional charging. And to a future that’s more efficient, flexible, and renewable than ever before.
Where V2G Stands in New Zealand Today
V2G is real – but it’s not widely available just yet.
Here’s where things are at:
- V2G regulation is coming: the Government agreed to regulate EV chargers above 2.4 kW for smart functionality and energy-performance information.
- Community trials are underway, with EECA funded testing of V2G and V2H applications in homes and businesses in Queenstown.
- Only a limited number of EVs currently support V2G, like the Nissan LEAF, and select Mitsubishi, BYD, KIA, Hyundai and Volkswagen models.
What do I need to use V2G?
01.
A V2G-compatible vehicle
The vehicle must support bidirectional energy transfer through its charge port, onboard systems, communication protocol and software.
02.
A compatible bidirectional charger
A conventional home EV charger cannot export energy from the vehicle. The bidirectional charger must be compatible with the vehicle’s connector and communication protocol
03.
Approval from the local electricity distributor
Because V2G equipment can inject electricity, the local distributor will generally need to assess the proposed connection.
04.
A participating energy retailer or service
Being technically able to export does not necessarily mean the exported energy will be optimised or financially rewarded.
05.
A suitable electrical installation
A licensed professional should assess the switchboard, supply capacity, metering, solar system, existing battery, cable route and any backup-power requirements.
06.
Manufacturer-supported use
Customers should check the vehicle manufacturer’s current New Zealand warranty terms before using V2G.
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Frequently Asked
Questions
It’s when your EV can both charge and discharge – allowing it to act as a battery for your home or the grid.
V2G powers your home or the grid. V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) powers individual appliances or tools – great for camping or emergencies. V2L is currently available on vehicles like the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and the KIA EV6.
CHAdeMO is a plug type used in some older Japanese EVs, like the Nissan LEAF. It was the standard when the Wallbox Quasar 1 launched, which is why that charger only works with CHAdeMO-compatible vehicles.
But things have moved on. Most EVs coming into New Zealand now use the CCS2 plug.
Even with a national standard in place, V2G still needs the green light from each state’s distribution network service provider (DNSP). Every DNSP has its own approval process – so being approved in one state doesn’t guarantee approval in another.
Think of your EV as a battery on wheels.
With V2G, you can:
– Charge your car during the day (using solar if you’ve got it)
– Discharge back to your home at night
– Cut down your energy bills and reduce peak-time reliance on the grid
That’s the path to lower energy costs – and a smarter, more sustainable setup at home.
Yes.
Consider a world without batteries. Every electrical device needs to be hard-wired to the grid or a generator to work. There are no mobile phones, no laptops, no wireless keyboard, no portable powertools or electric bikes. Cars must be hand-cranked or plugged in to run the starter motor. The storage and transport of electricity has been instrumental in our technological development.
EVs have some of the largest batteries in use today. With bi-directional charging, your EV can use solar to charge during the day and then discharge at night for free home power. Your supermarket or workplace could be your main source of power each day.
Vehicle to grid is the key to zero cost mobility.
The first step to V2G is a vehicle that can support it. Next, you’ll need a bi-directional or V2G charger. Most stations on the market to-date have been large, bulky, and designed for trials.
