Bidirectional charging and grid resiliency

Bidirectional charging, or two-way charging, allows battery energy to flow in two directions. An EV usually draws electricity from the grid when needed to charge. But, some EVs can also deliver energy to the grid or other devices outside the vehicle (such as a small appliance).

There are three types of bidirectional charging:

A resilient grid is a strong power system that keeps giving electricity without long or widespread power cuts. Grid resiliency is important for a modern society. Here are two ways that EVs support a more resilient power grid:

• Providing power to the grid during peak times (4 to 9 pm), when more electricity is being used, can help reduce loads. EVs can then recharge during off-peak hours when the energy demands are lower.
• Serving as a backup power source during outages can help reduce disruptions. Essential services, businesses, and households will continue to have electricity.

An EV with bidirectional charge abilities can serve as a backup power source. A fully-charged EV battery has the potential to power your home for up to three days or even longer.

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