Australia’s vehicle-to-grid (V2G) trial through Amber Electric has received a major boost, with 50 customers set to receive battery warranty.
V2G technology allows an electric vehicle battery to power a home or send energy back to the electricity grid, and the trial is aimed to demonstrate how electric vehicles can help support renewable energy use
While the idea has strong potential, many car makers have been cautious about battery wear, and warranties have been a key barrier.
Amber has confirmed that the customers involved in the trial will have their batteries covered under warranty while they use V2G charging. The project is supported by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.
Interest in the program continues to grow with Amber confirming nearly 4,000 people across Australia have now joined its waitlist for future V2G access.
Growing Interest in Vehicle-to-Grid Technology
“EVs are the largest and most flexible battery most households will ever own. With this trial we’re showing what’s possible when you combine Australia’s love of solar with the rise of electric vehicles,” Amber co-CEO and co-founder Dan Adams said.
Mr Adams explained that the approach encourages customers to plug in when it suits them, either to power their home or earn from the grid. “They keep the value, and Amber’s automation does the work,” he said.
Early Results Show Financial Benefits
Amber reports that early trial outcomes have been positive. One household in New South Wales earned $300 overnight using V2G technology. Another household in Victoria earned $257 in a single day.
The trial will also examine the impact of V2G on battery health. Co-CEO Chris Thompson said results so far suggest battery use under V2G is similar to normal driving. He noted that some other car makers are discussing possible warranty support, although no further announcements have been confirmed.
Future Commercial Rollout
BYD chief product officer Sajid Hasan said the company is happy to support EV owners who want to use their vehicle battery to power their home or send excess energy back to the grid when it is needed.
Amber aims to launch a full commercial V2G product in 2026. The first 50 trial chargers will come from StarCharge, and Amber will continue testing different charger brands already available in Australia.
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