Study: Bidirectional Charging Could Save Billions
A study by the Fraunhofer Institute reveals that using electric vehicles (EVs) as energy storage via bidirectional charging technology could significantly reduce electricity costs and reliance on power plants. Combined with solar and wind energy systems, such a solution could save up to €22 billion annually in Europe and cover up to 20% of the European Union’s electricity needs. Experts estimate that by 2050, the global EV fleet could contribute 90 billion kWh of energy to the grid.
In Germany, EVs are typically driven for only about one hour per day, spending the remaining 23 hours parked. Connecting these vehicles to the power grid during idle times and using their batteries as temporary energy storage could help balance fluctuations in electricity supply and demand.
This approach could also increase the utility of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Parked and grid-connected EVs could feed electricity back into the grid during high-demand peak hours. According to a study by Transport & Environment, this system could save Europe up to €22 billion annually. Furthermore, EVs used in this capacity could theoretically meet 9% of the EU’s electricity demand and, under favorable conditions, up to 20%.
By 2050, the global EV fleet could reach 1.5 billion vehicles. With an average battery capacity of 60 kWh per vehicle, this fleet could collectively supply up to 90 billion kWh of electricity per year. According to the Fraunhofer Institute, bidirectional charging technology could save EV owners between €31 and €780 annually by providing energy to their homes or the grid.
Some countries, such as France, are already introducing incentives to promote the use of bidirectional charging. For instance, owners of the new Renault R5 are promised 10,000 km of free driving if they connect their car to the grid as a temporary battery for at least 15 hours per day.
A recent survey conducted by the energy company Eon found that 77% of respondents are willing to use bidirectional charging to power their homes, while 65% would consider using it for the electricity grid. Experts recommend implementing bidirectional charging technology at all private and public charging stations where feasible. Although the initial costs are higher, they are expected to pay off within just a few months.
