Electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology could help drive down electricity bills for all Australians, not just EV owners, according to new modelling by the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC).
The report found that a $3,000 government rebate for V2G chargers would return more than $4,500 in savings per household by reducing wholesale electricity prices and the need for expensive new energy infrastructure. That’s a $1.50 return for every dollar spent.
V2G, also known as bidirectional charging, allows EVs to send power back to the grid during times of high demand, turning parked vehicles into “giant batteries on wheels.”
“Just as Australia became a rapid global leader in rooftop solar, we have the opportunity now to lead the charge in vehicle-to-grid uptake,” said Electric Vehicle Council CEO Julie Delvecchio.
Big Benefits for Everyday Australians
With V2G, EV owners could earn up to $1,000 each year by exporting electricity when prices spike. Over five years, each V2G-equipped vehicle could deliver more than $4,500 in savings spread across the entire grid.
“EVs can store up to five times more energy than a typical home battery,” Ms Delvecchio explained. “That’s a huge untapped resource sitting in driveways. With the right technology, we can use it to save money, support the grid, and make the whole system more reliable for everyone.”
A Cleaner and Faster Way to Power the Grid
The EVC estimates that 600,000 EVs using V2G could match the full output of NSW’s Eraring coal-fired power station, helping to speed up the phase-out of fossil fuels.
“Australia is home to more than 350,000 EVs, and many are located in middle and outer suburbs,” said Ms Delvecchio.
“With some EVs now priced around $30,000, the upfront cost is becoming more manageable. V2G unlocks the full value of electric vehicles—for drivers and non-drivers alike.”
Ms Delvecchio compared the potential of V2G to Australia’s success with rooftop solar. “A lesson we learnt is that government support in the early years is key. Over time, V2G chargers will become cheaper, and more people will embrace this game-changing tech.”
A Call to Fund V2G Chargers
The EVC is urging the Federal Government to include V2G technology in its $2.3 billion home battery scheme. Their proposal includes $3,000 rebates for 50,000 V2G chargers by 2028, a total investment of $150 million, and an expected national benefit of over $230 million by 2033
“V2G allows EV owners to drive down power bills not just for themselves but for all Australians,” Ms Delvecchio said.
“It also strengthens our energy system, especially during extreme weather events.”
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