UL Solutions Standardizes V2G Tech With New Certification Program
New safety and performance benchmarks for bidirectional charging aim to turn electric vehicles into active grid assets.
UL Solutions has launched a formal certification program for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies to standardize the safety and performance of bidirectional charging systems. The initiative allows electric vehicles to function as mobile energy storage units, discharging power back into the electrical grid during periods of instability or peak demand.
The program centers on the application of two primary standards: UL 9741, which covers bidirectional EV charging system equipment, and UL 1741 SA, which governs inverters and controllers for distributed energy resources. By utilizing these benchmarks, UL Solutions ensures that V2G hardware maintains interoperability and strict grid compliance. The company has already begun issuing these certifications, with Fermata Energy's FE-20 bidirectional charger becoming the first system to be certified under both UL 9741 and UL 1741 SA.
The Shift to Active Grid Assets
As electric vehicle adoption accelerates, power grids are facing increased pressure from unpredictable charging behaviors. Traditionally, EVs have acted as passive loads, drawing power from the system. However, V2G technology transforms these vehicles into active grid assets. By utilizing existing vehicle batteries as distributed energy resources, utilities can gain the flexibility needed to stabilize the energy system and potentially lower the overall cost of grid expansion.
Scaling for Mass Adoption
Standardized certification is a critical prerequisite for moving V2G from small-scale pilot projects to mass-market adoption. Without a recognized safety and performance benchmark, utilities and manufacturers face significant technical and financial risks. By providing a verified framework, UL Solutions reduces these barriers, accelerating the integration of EVs into the broader energy market. This shift is essential for supporting the transition toward a more resilient, emissions-free power grid that can handle the volatility of renewable energy sources.
Future Outlook
Industry observers will now watch for the rate of adoption among other EV charger manufacturers as they seek these certifications to enter the V2G market. While the technical framework is now in place via UL 9741 and UL 1741 SA, the next phase of growth depends on the willingness of utilities to integrate these certified bidirectional systems into their operational workflows on a large scale.