Unlocking value for customers through smarter charging

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) recently announced $3.2 million in funding to Amber Electric (Amber) to trial battery electric vehicle (BEV) smart charging and the provision of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) services with residential customers. 
Through this Australian-first residential trial, Amber is developing a software solution to facilitate BEV smart charging and V2G
bi-directional charging for its residential customers, including the installation of 100 smart chargers and 50 V2G chargers into participants’ homes.  
ARENA Chief Executive Officer, Darren Miller, said this was an exciting project that would provide insight into pathways for commercialisation of smart charging and V2G while uncovering unique insights into consumer habits.  
“With accelerating uptake of electric vehicles in Australia, this project will develop and demonstrate new ways for consumers to unlock value from their consumer energy resources and facilitate greater use of renewable energy,” Darren said.
At least 1,000 customers will participate in this trial across the ACT, NSW, QLD, SA and VIC over the next two years with the V2G scope expected to kick-off in mid-2025.
The solution will be built into Amber’s existing customer application to enhance its service offering, unlocking more value for BEV owners while accelerating the renewable energy transition. 
ARENA’s funding will help to support the development and implementation of the software solution and the rollout of the chargers.
This project will allow trial participants to turn their vehicles into “batteries on wheels” further supporting grid stability and the integration of renewable energy. 
Amber Co-Chief Executive Officer Dan Adams said V2G and smart charging technology has the potential to be one of the most groundbreaking technologies to enter the Australian energy sector. 
“This technology represents a transformative leap for energy storage in Australia, and the energy system as a whole,” Dan said.
“By integrating electric vehicles with the grid and the wholesale energy market, we can reduce costs for consumers whilst accelerating the transition to renewable energy. 
“Our customers will be able to directly compete with big coal and gas generators just by smart charging and discharging their EV battery.
“This innovation not only strengthens our energy infrastructure but also aligns with a commitment to a sustainable future.” 

For more from ARENA, visit www.arena.gov.au