Bidirectional Energy announced in partnership with Wallbox the launch of North America's first multi-state bidirectional charging program, open to 180 homes across California and Connecticut. The pilots will kick off by enabling Kia EV9 owners to leverage Wallbox's Quasar 2 bidirectional charger and Bidirectional Energy's virtual power plant platform to save money, support the power grid, and accelerate the adoption of flexible energy systems across the United States. The program will expand to additional vehicles and homes at a later date.
The program, developed with local utilities and stakeholders in the two states, provides participating customers with substantial incentives: up to $8,800 in California for charger and installation costs, and up to $10,800 in Connecticut, alongside estimated annual energy bill savings and grid support earnings of up to $1,500 and $1,350 in each respective U.S. state. These initiatives make it easier than ever for drivers to adopt cutting-edge charging technology while helping stabilize the grid. The Quasar 2, Wallbox's next-generation 12.48-kilowatt (kW) bidirectional charger, enables EV owners to power their homes or send energy back to the grid.
Paired with its Power Recovery Unit, the Quasar 2 is also able to provide critical backup power in the event of an outage, transforming the EV into a powerful home generator for several days. As utility rates continue to climb and power outages become a more common occurrence, bidirectional charging can give homeowners more independence and control over their energy usage. Bidirectional Energy is committed to making this technology more accessible to everyone, beginning with its software platform that helps EV owners cut bills, gain backup power, and earn from grid services.
The pilot program across these two states offers a seamless experience for participants to save thousands of dollars. For this initial phase of the program, homeowners in the two states must own or lease a Kia EV9 to participate and can sign up by verifying their home's qualifications on the Bidirectional Energy website. Once their home is verified as eligible for program participation, the homeowner can purchase and schedule installation of charging hardware from Wallbox, submitting receipts via the Bidirectional Energy app for rebate reimbursement due to the state-funded grants.
Bidirectional Energy and its electrical partner will then manage the rest of the process for participants - handling utility interconnection, securing rebate payments, and more. Backup Power feature can be used until a 20% battery state of charge. Quasar 2 and Power Recovery Unit must be in a residential garage or carport with shade and ventilation.
