V2G Tariffs Explained: Selling Power Back to the Grid

A V2G tariff lets you earn credits by sending electricity from your EV's battery back to the grid during high-demand periods. You charge cheaply overnight, then export some of that stored energy when your supplier calls on it, receiving a credit for every kilowatt-hour sent back. V2G tariffs are still niche in the UK and terms vary between suppliers, so check directly with your energy company before signing up. Our Guides cover the cables and connectors involved in plain language.

How is a V2G tariff different from a standard EV tariff?

A standard EV tariff gives you cheaper electricity overnight to charge your car. A V2G tariff adds the ability to export electricity from the car back to the grid in exchange for a credit. This requires a bidirectional charger, a compatible vehicle, and metering that tracks both import and export. The financial logic only works if there is a meaningful gap between what you pay to charge and what you receive when exporting, so check both figures when comparing deals.

What schemes are available to UK drivers right now?

The UK has seen a number of V2G trials and early commercial offerings. Octopus Energy has been among the more active suppliers, and others partnered with vehicle manufacturers have run programmes too. Availability has been patchy, with some schemes limited to specific areas or vehicle types. Go directly to your energy supplier's website for current V2G offers, as schemes open, close, and change terms regularly.

What role does smart metering play in V2G tariffs?

Smart meters are generally required because your supplier needs to measure your export in real time, not just overall consumption. Without half-hourly data, the supplier cannot accurately credit your exports. If you do not yet have a smart meter, your energy supplier can arrange installation, usually at no charge.

How do V2G export payments actually get credited?

Exported kilowatt-hours are credited to your energy account at an agreed export rate, reducing your bill. Some tariffs pay cash rather than bill credit. Capacity payments, where offered, are credited at a flat rate per period your car was available, regardless of actual export volume. Read your terms carefully and confirm how missed windows are handled.

What are the realistic trade-offs of joining a V2G tariff?

The main trade-offs: the bidirectional charger costs considerably more than a standard wallbox; eligible vehicles are still limited; and your car needs to be plugged in during export windows to earn credits. If you drive unpredictably or regularly need the car in the evening, a V2G tariff may not suit your lifestyle. You keep control over the minimum charge the car retains, so your driving range is protected. Talk to your insurer before fitting a bidirectional charger, as it is a significant electrical installation.

Is V2G worth it compared to a simpler off-peak charging tariff?

A simple off-peak EV charging tariff will save most drivers money compared to standard-rate charging. V2G adds further potential on top of that, but only if you have the right car, can afford the bidirectional charger, and drive in patterns that suit the export windows. For everyone else, off-peak charging with optional solar is the simpler starting point. If you want to make use of your battery without grid complexity, V2L is another route: see our V2L discharge cables for that.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a V2G tariff with any EV?

No. V2G requires a car with a connector and onboard system that supports bidirectional DC charging. In the UK this has mainly meant CHAdeMO-equipped vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf. CCS-based V2G is emerging on newer models. Verify with your car's manufacturer and your energy supplier whether your specific vehicle qualifies before applying for a V2G tariff.

Do I need a new charger to join a V2G scheme?

Yes. A standard home wallbox or portable granny charger only handles one-way power flow. V2G requires a bidirectional home charger approved by the scheme or supplier. Installation by a qualified electrician is required. These chargers cost considerably more than standard units, so get a current quote and factor the cost into your decision.

Will a V2G tariff work if I have solar panels?

It can work alongside solar, and some households run both. Your energy management system would need to be set up to coordinate solar generation, home battery storage if you have it, car charging, and V2G export sensibly. Talk to your installer and energy supplier about compatible setups before assuming the systems will integrate automatically.

What happens if I need my car during a V2G export window?

You can disconnect your car and drive away. Most V2G systems are designed with this in mind and will not penalise you for a missed export event. The car will also always retain at least the minimum charge level you set. Check your specific scheme's terms to confirm, but interrupting an export for a genuine journey should not cause problems.

Are V2G tariff rates regulated?

Not in a fixed, mandated sense in the same way that certain consumer protections on energy pricing are regulated. Export rates are set commercially by the supplier, and they can change. Make sure you understand whether the export rate in your agreement is fixed for a period or variable, and what notice the supplier must give before changing it.

Is V2G available across all of the UK?

Coverage varies. Some schemes have been limited to England and Wales or to specific Distribution Network Operator areas, rather than being available across Scotland and Northern Ireland too. Check with the supplier whether your postcode is eligible before applying, and ask whether there are waiting lists if it is not yet open in your area.

V2G tariffs represent one of the more genuinely interesting developments in EV ownership, but the right way to evaluate one is with current numbers from your own supplier rather than headline estimates. Talk to your energy company about what is available for your car and postcode, confirm whether your vehicle is eligible, and get a quote for a bidirectional charger installation before deciding whether the economics work for you. For more on EV charging at home, including standard cable options and smart charging accessories, browse our EV charging cables range or read more on our Guides page.