Two European cities advance vehicle-to-grid (V2G) solutions

V2G in Utrecht

Utrecht has become the first European city to implement a large-scale vehicle-to-grid (V2G) system through a collaboration between Renault Group, We Drive Solar, MyWheels, and the local municipality. The initiative, called Utrecht Energized, aims to stabilise the electricity grid while providing affordable, sustainable transport.

The project has launched with 50 Renault 5 E-Tech electric vehicles and 50 bidirectional chargers, which have been added into the MyWheels ridesharing fleet. There are plans to scale up to 500 EVs. The scheme targets residents who mainly walk or cycle but occasionally need a car, encouraging them to give up private vehicle ownership entirely.

The system allows cars to charge when solar energy is abundant and discharge back into the grid during peak demand. This is particularly effective in Utrecht, where 35% of rooftops are fitted with solar panels. V2G advocates highlight the potential for storing surplus solar energy in EV batteries rather than selling it cheaply abroad. Carsharing operators can also generate income from parked vehicles providing grid services.

Despite its promise, the initiative faces regulatory and logistical challenges. Differences in tax rules, grid tariffs, and local parking regulations - especially across multiple grid operators - present hurdles. Renault plans to expand the concept into Germany, where over 850 grid operators operate under varied protocols.

According to Mobilize’s energy director, removing regulatory barriers and standardising systems will be key to making V2G a mainstream element of future energy networks.

Volkswagen's V2G trial in Sweden

Volkswagen is preparing to launch a V2G trial in Hudiksvall, Sweden, using direct current (DC)-based technology. While EV batteries store power as DC and since electricity grids typically use alternating current (AC), the trial will rely on bidirectional inverters that convert electricity both ways.

The project involves 200 Volkswagen ID. electric vehicles and 200 bidirectional chargers supplied by Ambibox, in partnership with energy provider Vattenfall. Initially, the trial will include 200 Swedish businesses and private customers, with plans to expand to the wider public by autumn if successful.

This summer's focus will be on evaluating system functionality, user experience, cost savings, and revenue potential. Ambibox CEO Manfred Przybilla acknowledged the technical challenges of the project but expressed confidence in the robustness of the jointly developed software platform.

Vattenfall’s Magnus Berg emphasised the role of electric vehicles in supporting a fossil-free future by storing clean energy for household use and returning surplus electricity to the grid when most economically beneficial.

Solving the regulatory challenge

Renault Group stresses that a supportive and harmonised regulatory framework is essential for realising the full potential of V2G technology across Europe. It advocates for clear and consistent regulations, including fiscal incentives, revised grid fee structures, simplified certification procedures, and support for smart meter rollouts.

The company argues that widescale V2G deployment requires coordination across the entire energy ecosystem, enabling electric vehicles to function as distributed energy assets and contributing to a more intelligent, sustainable energy system. Renault is already showcasing V2G applications in various regions of France.

Author: Sara Mecatti

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.