News Highlights:
- China is launching EV-to-grid pilot projects in nine cities to enhance power supply stability.
- The initiative aims to integrate EVs with the grid, optimize charging, and create new revenue opportunities.
China is set to introduce pilot projects in nine cities to integrate its growing electric vehicle (EV) fleet with the power grid, enabling EVs to serve as batteries and support electricity supply during peak demand, the government announced on Wednesday.
The initiative follows regulations introduced by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) last year to enhance the integration of new energy vehicles with the grid, addressing concerns that rapid EV adoption could strain power infrastructure.
According to the NDRC and the national energy regulator, most of the 30 planned projects—set to launch in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou—will focus on vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology.
This system allows EVs to store and feed electricity back into the grid, optimize charging schedules to avoid peak hours, and provide services like frequency regulation.
The initiative could also offer financial benefits for EV owners and charging station operators by compensating them for supplying power back to the grid.
Under the plan, power grid companies will oversee project implementation, while provincial governments will spearhead the development of charging infrastructure. The energy regulator has been tasked with ensuring the participation of grid-connected EVs in power trading.
China’s state planner previously announced a target of over 50 pilot programs by 2025. However, experts caution that large-scale V2G adoption faces hurdles, including the need for viable business models and advancements in battery technology, as outlined in the NDRC’s 2024 policy guidelines.
