Vehicle-to-grid service from Renault a fact in the Netherlands!
More than 70% of EV drivers have solar panels
In the Netherlands, more than 70% of EV drivers have solar panels at home, according to the National Charging Survey 2023 (ElaadNL, VER, RVO). With the end of the net-metering scheme (January 2027) on the horizon, interest in reusing cheap and/or self-generated energy is growing. V2G represents a solution to this, while at the same time contributing to balancing the electricity grid in the Netherlands.
V2G technology enables bi-directional charging
Thanks to V2G technology, charging is bi-directional. This V2G service makes it possible not only to temporarily interrupt charging during peak hours, but also to feed power back to the grid when electricity demand is high. Car charging occurs at times when the supply of renewable energy on the grid is high and thus the power is cheaper, allowing consumers to save significantly. The technology does not affect the desired range: the system ensures that the car is charged to the level desired by the customer so that it is ready for use when needed.
V2G in the Netherlands
Since bi-directional charging is a complex new technology and each energy network in Europe has its own grid operators and specific characteristics, Renault Group and trusted partner We Drive Solar have chosen to establish a local ecosystem in the Netherlands: We Drive Solar, a leading provider of innovative charging infrastructure. We Drive Solar has been active in the field of bi-directional charging solutions for ten years.
The following items are required for customers wishing to take advantage of the V2G service:
- A Renault Group electric car with a V2G-enabled on-board charger. Initially, these are the Renault 5 E-Tech electric, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric and the Alpine A290. Through the dealer, customers can check whether the respective model is V2G-capable.
- The V2G bi-directional Solar Life charging station from We Drive Solar. With this charging station, non-V2G capable electric or plug-in hybrid cars can also be charged, but not feed power back.
- A specific dynamic energy contract from one of the appropriate power supplier (Hegg) with associated mobile app.
- Furthermore, the home must be in the Netherlands, be suitable for installing a home charger and have a fixed Internet connection, a 3-phase connection and a smart meter.
Market launch of V2G in the Netherlands
In the coming weeks, a select group of early adopters will begin using the V2G service. Full market introduction to the general public is planned for the first half of 2026. During 2026, the V2G service is also expected to become available for use with other Renault Group electric models. These will be cars equipped with an on-board charger suitable for V2G technology. Further product information will be communicated at that time.