With India's ambitious goals for widespread EV adoption and achieving Net Zero emissions, integrating V2G could revolutionise energy management. New Delhi: Imagine an electric vehicle (EV) that is not just as a mode of transport but as a lifeline for diverse settings—urban, semi-urban, and rural. During power outages, natural disasters, or local energy needs, its battery can power a kinara shop, light up classrooms, support rescue operations, run a small water pump, or provide power backup at a camping site. In essence, V2G technology can transform the darkest nights into beacons of hope.
This vision isn't far-fetched. In India, where reliable energy access remains a challenge in many regions, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is expected to rewrite the energy playbook. V2G facilitates bi-directional energy flow, allowing EVs to transfer surplus electricity back to the grid or directly power localised needs when not serving their primary purpose. It also helps integrate renewable energy more effectively by storing surplus energy from sources like solar or wind and releasing it when needed, thus lowering operational costs. Furthermore, V2G is seen to aid in demand management by discharging energy from EVs during peak times, reducing strain on the grid and avoiding expensive energy sources.
With India's ambitious goals for widespread EV adoption and achieving Net Zero emissions, integrating V2G could revolutionise energy management. For this vision to become a reality, stakeholders must collaborate. Investments in smart and compatible grid infrastructure, standardised energy transfer protocols, advanced grid management systems and tools, real-time monitoring systems, and incentives for EV owners are essential. Therefore, creating a new revenue stream for EV owners, and reducing costs for the grid, leading to a more efficient and sustainable energy system in the country.
“V2G technology supports a circular economy by optimising energy use, enabling electric vehicles to act as mobile energy storage devices. This enhances renewable energy integration, balances supply and demand, reduces grid strain, minimises reliance on fossil fuels, and lowers emissions,” explains Jeffry Jacob, Partner and National Sector Leader for Automotive, KPMG in India.
Jacob further notes that, in India, "some Discoms are already exploring this technology and have partnered with U.S. universities to evaluate and pilot V2G initiatives. Additionally, a few energy software companies are working on developing bi-directional battery-swapping systems to support V2G applications.”
A spokesperson from Adani Total Gas, says, “Various research institutions and universities in India are conducting studies on V2G technology to understand its feasibility and benefits in the Indian context. OEMs like Tata Motors and Mahindra Electric have reportedly shown interest in V2G technology and are likely to incorporate it into their future models.” Currently, no models have V2G technology. The spokesperson further adds that the Indian government has been supportive of EV adoption and renewable energy integration. “Policies and incentives are being developed to encourage the use of V2G technology.”
Says, Anand Kulkarni, Chief Products Officer, Head of HV Programs and Customer Service, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., “V2G turns the battery of an EV to a multi-purpose solution, where it is not just used for propulsion of a vehicle, but is also used for storing and redistributing energy wherever the requirement may arise. This maximises the utility of a battery and in-turn reducing the requirement for additional energy storage systems for the overall grid.”
Highlighting that V2G technology is in at a nascent stage in India, Kulkarni further adds, “there are multiple challenges the solution needs to overcome before being adopted widely by users such as consumer awareness, range anxiety, evolving policy framework, high upfront costs, electricity pricing and grid management, and data security and privacy concerns.”
“Grid stability at micro and macro level is utmost critical for the growth of electric mobility. V2G technology paves the way to solve this fundamental challenge and also can revolutionize the EV market by transforming EVs into more than just a mode of transport," says Dr. Nishanth Dongari, Founder and MD, Pure EV.
In a bid to make V2G technology to work smoothly, it needs to have a robust two-way energy exchange and real-time coordination with the grid. Some of the key technologies that are required for a smooth operation of V2G include such as;
ISO 15118 (EV Communication Standard): A critical international standard for communication between EVs and charging stations. It allows for secure, automated communication and enables functions like plug-and-charge, billing, and V2G operation. ISO 15118 defines how data, such as charging status, battery level, and energy consumption, is exchanged between the EV and the charger.
OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol): OCPP is a communication standard between charging stations and central management systems. It enables remote monitoring, control, and optimisation of charging stations. For V2G systems, OCPP allows charging stations to report on energy flows, status updates, and other critical data needed for grid management.
IEC 61851 and IEC 63110: These are other international standards for EV charging systems. While IEC 61851 defines the basic aspects of EV charging, IEC 63110 focuses on the communication between EVs and the grid, enabling effective integration for smart charging and V2G systems.
Samkit Shah, Co-Founder of Jitendra EV, highlights critical concerns surrounding V2G technology, particularly cybersecurity and battery degradation. “We need to have robust software systems that strengthen cybersecurity and provide safety from various external threats,” he emphasises.
While acknowledging V2G as a transformative innovation, Shah points out that the adoption of solid-state batteries could further enhance its viability. “Solid-state batteries are a game-changer. With significantly lower thermal run rates, they reduce the risks of battery degradation,” he explains. “These batteries boast up to 10,000 charging cycles at the cell level, translating to a lifespan of more than 27 years.” This shift to advanced battery technology could address key challenges and amplify the long-term benefits of V2G, making EVs even more sustainable and efficient in energy management.
Explaining that V2G technology offers substantial economic benefits for both the grid and consumers, Kumar Ramamurthi - CEO, BAXY Mobility, says, “For the grid, it enhances stability, reduces peak demand costs, and minimises the need for additional power plants by utilising EVs as decentralised energy storage. For consumers, V2G provides opportunities to earn revenue by selling excess energy back to the grid and reduces electricity costs through optimised charging during off-peak hours. We see V2G as a win-win innovation that not only supports a sustainable energy ecosystem but also makes EV ownership more financially rewarding.”
