BYD and Octopus Energy have launched a vehicle-to-grid (V2G) bundle with free home charging.
Announced at Octopus Energy’s Tech Summit, the Power Pack bundle includes a leased BYD Dolphin, a Zaptec Pro V2G charger, and a smart energy tariff.
V2G allows electric vehicles (EVs) to provide energy to the electricity grid, reducing power station demand in peak times.
In exchange for providing relief to the grid, drivers will receive free home charging for all the miles in their vehicle’s lease.
The system is powered by Octopus’ Kraken tech platform.
Stella Li, executive vice president of BYD, said: “We’re thrilled to officially launch our V2G project with Octopus Energy and Kraken.
“BYD is fully committed to making intelligent, innovative, sustainable technologies available to our customers, and this project will allow them to unlock the full potential of electric vehicles – not just as transport but as dynamic assets that can play a key role in supporting the grid.
“Together with Octopus Energy, we’re enabling EV owners to play an active role in the energy ecosystem, reducing costs and increasing the resilience of renewable power systems.”
EV drivers can save up to £620 per year in comparison to a standard variable tariff, with savings of over £1,000 when compared with a combustion engine powered car.
To qualify, drivers must plug their car in at least 20 times a month, for 12 hours each time.
In order for the tariff to cover all miles, drivers must average three miles per kWh.
The bundle will also be offered to Motability customers, allowing disabled people to benefit too.
Andrew Miller, chief executive of Motability Operations, said: “It’s great to see V2G technology becoming available at scale – effectively turning EVs into energy assets that can help power homes and support the grid.
“For our customers, this could mean significantly lower energy bills and an even more affordable route into electric driving.
“We’re proud to be part of a pilot that’s not only breaking new ground in energy, but also ensuring the benefits are accessible to disabled people across the UK.”
