AGL's 2026 V2G Trial Marks Major Step Towards Widespread EV Grid Integration
AGL is set to launch a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) trial in 2026, offering discounted bi-directional chargers to 50 customers and recruiting another 50 participants. This comes as Chinese EV manufacturers Nio and Great Wall Motors, along with BMW, have shown support for V2G technology. Meanwhile, two major energy retailers and Amber have also announced V2G trials.
V2G technology enables electric vehicles (EVs) to act as mobile batteries, charging from the grid and feeding energy back into it when needed. AGL's trial, backed by Kia, Hyundai, Zeekr, and BYD, will extend battery warranties for participants. Origin Energy is also starting a V2G trial in 2026 with BYD Atto 3 SUVs and StarCharge equipment.
Participants can earn between $2000 and $3000 annually by selling electricity from their car batteries back into the grid during peak demand. The technology's wider adoption has been hindered by automakers' reluctance to allow V2G functionality. However, with increasing support from manufacturers and energy providers, 2026 could see V2G entering many Australian households, potentially reducing electricity bills and offering a side income.
AGL's and Origin Energy's V2G trials, supported by major automakers and energy retailers, signal a significant step towards wider adoption of the technology. If successful, V2G could transform how Australians use and think about their electric vehicles, turning them into valuable assets that can help manage the electricity grid and generate income.
