Chevy Silverado EV charging at home with V2 bi-directional charging

Exploring Vehicle to Home (V2H) Energy Solutions

As the world moves towards more sustainable energy solutions, Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) technology is emerging as a game-changer. V2H enables electric vehicles to serve as backup power sources for homes, enhancing energy security and sustainability. At True South Solar, we are excited about the potential of V2H and it’s ability to work alongside Tesla Powerwall to provide peace of mind for you and your family.

Tesla Cybertruck and Its V2H Capabilities

The Tesla Cybertruck, equipped with a “universal charger,” can be connected to a Tesla Gateway to function as a backup battery for your home. This capability can be utilized alongside or independently of Tesla Powerwalls, offering flexible and robust energy solutions. Pairing the Cybertruck with Powerwall3 and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems ensures your home remains powered even during outages, providing peace of mind and energy resilience.

Researching Other Bi-Directional Chargers

Beyond the Tesla Cybertruck, we are actively researching other bi-directional chargers that support V2H and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) applications. Manufacturers like General Motors (GM)/Chevy, Ford, SolarEdge, Enphase, and Wallbox are developing innovative solutions in this space. We have inquired with Pacific Power to verify the approval status of these chargers for installation, ensuring that all systems meet local regulations and provide optimal performance.

Tesla PowerShare: A Proven Solution

Tesla’s PowerShare technology, integrated with approved Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) and compatible with Tesla Gateways (Gateway2 and Gateway3), is already a viable and approved option. For homes without batteries, we can install a PowerShare-specific Gateway. Additionally, these systems appear to be compatible with meter switches, though further research is needed to confirm this design.

Key Benefits of V2H Solutions

  • Enhanced Energy Security: Use your electric vehicle as a backup power source, ensuring continuous power supply during outages.
  • Cost Savings: Reduce reliance on the grid and potentially lower your energy bills.
  • Sustainable Living: Maximize the use of renewable energy sources and reduce your carbon footprint.

Drawbacks of V2H Solutions

  • New Technology: At this point, V2H is in the early adopter phase. It’s going to be a while before it goes into widespread use.
  • Limited Vehicles Available: There are only a handful of vehicles available currently that support V2H technology.
  • Timing Constraints: When planning out your day, consider that your vehicle will usually be at work when the sun is shining, which is the ideal time for vehicle charging.
Image courtesy of GM Energy.

Moving Forward with V2H at True South Solar

At True South Solar, we are committed to staying at the forefront of energy innovation. If you are interested in installing V2H solutions, including those for the Tesla Cybertruck, we can help. Our team is equipped to handle these installations and can provide guidance on pairing them with Powerwall 3 and PV systems for optimal performance.

As we continue to research and validate other bi-directional chargers, we aim to expand our offerings and provide comprehensive energy solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Conclusion

Vehicle-to-Home technology represents a significant step forward in creating more resilient and sustainable homes. By integrating electric vehicles like the Tesla Cybertruck into your home’s energy system, you can enhance energy security, reduce costs, and contribute to a greener future.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.​

True South Solar is Southern Oregon’s premier solar and storage company. Since 2010, we have dedicated ourselves to providing high-quality residential and commercial solar power systems and battery backup solutions. Our mission is to deliver “Solar for Everyone and the Best Jobs Ever!” Let us help you achieve peace of mind and a #SunPoweredLiving experience.