Massachusetts Utilities Prepare to Pay EV Drivers for Battery Power Via V2G Expansion

According to Electrek, some Massachusetts electric vehicle owners will soon be able to earn incentives by sending electricity from their vehicle batteries back to the power grid during peak demand periods. Utilities Eversource and National Grid are expanding their existing virtual power plant programs, known as ConnectedSolutions, to include residential vehicle-to-grid (V2G) charging.

Expanding the Virtual Power Plant

ConnectedSolutions already integrates smart thermostats, home batteries, and commercial and industrial equipment to reduce strain on the electrical grid when demand peaks. Now, Eversource and National Grid are moving to test how effectively EV batteries can perform the same task.

Massachusetts currently has a substantial amount of unused battery capacity parked across the state. Electrek reports that over 150,000 EVs are on Massachusetts roads, while the availability of models offering bidirectional charging capabilities continues to grow.

To manage the smart-charging and grid-integration technology required for this initiative, the utilities are partnering with EnergyHub, Sunrun, and The Mobility House.

“We are excited to bring our dispatching expertise to Massachusetts and help expand our vehicle-to-grid technology to more customers,” said Chip Silverman, Sunrun’s director of grid services. “Vehicle batteries play a critical role in stabilizing the grid, providing backup power to homes, and lowering energy costs for everyone.”

Benefits and Commercial Precedents

During spikes in electricity demand, enrolled EVs can dispatch stored energy back into the broader grid. According to Electrek, this process can help prevent overall system strain, lower reliance on expensive peak power, and potentially reduce energy costs for all consumers, not just participating EV drivers.

V2G technology is already being utilized in commercial and municipal settings throughout the state. National Grid currently applies V2G technology to light- and medium-duty fleets, including electric school buses, through ConnectedSolutions. Simultaneously, Eversource is in discussions with local school districts regarding V2G integration through its ConnectedSolutions+ program.

Outstanding Program Details

While the technology is capable of handling the task, several key operational details remain unannounced. As Electrek notes, the utilities have not yet disclosed:

• Which specific EV models and bidirectional chargers will qualify for the program
• The exact date when driver enrollment will open
• The specific payout amounts or incentive rates for participating drivers

Ultimately, Electrek highlights that the success of the initiative will depend on whether utilities offer sufficient financial compensation and a seamless enrollment process to convince EV owners to share their battery power during peak grid events.