The integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into the U.S. power grid is reshaping grid resilience, with EVs evolving into dynamic energy assets. With EV adoption projected to reach 27 million vehicles by 2030, utilities and stakeholders are investing in vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology and bidirectional charging infrastructure to enhance flexibility and manage peak demand. Companies like Nuvve and Dominion Energy are pioneering V2G initiatives, while Power Technology Research (PTR Inc.) forecasts nearly 300,000 V2G-capable chargers in the U.S. by 2035. Legislation is accelerating progress. Maryland’s DRIVE Act mandates utilities submit V2G and virtual power plant (VPP) plans, followed by similar legislation in Colorado and California, laying the groundwork for widespread utility participation. V2G pilot projects are expanding, with Dominion Energy’s electric school bus program leading the way—over 135 buses have delivered 3 MW of grid support and avoided 1,632 tons of emissions. In San Diego, school buses in a V2G pilot earn up to $7,200 annually through grid services.

On the standards front, NEMA’s February 2025 release of a permitting framework for bidirectional charging simplifies V2G implementation. Meanwhile, Canada is exploring V2G for grid reliability, with Ontario’s IESO allocating $9.5 million for EV-based demand-side flexibility. Despite challenges in heavy-duty trucking applications, depot-based use cases particularly electric school buses are proving highly effective. As EVs become active grid participants, partnerships between OEMs, utilities, and tech providers like Nuvve are enabling scalable, cost-saving deployments. By 2035, V2G will be integral to balancing renewable energy and ensuring grid stability across North America.

Follow this link to learn more: The Role of Electric Vehicles in Grid Resilience and Flexibility

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