The project will install Wallbox's Quasar 2, a bidirectional charger, in 120 California homes. Bidirectional Energy's virtual power plant (VPP) platform will manage the chargers, enabling features like home energy backup, reduced utility bills, and potential earnings for users.
"This technology allows users to schedule charging during off-peak hours and potentially earn by selling energy back to the grid," said Erik Folgeberg of Wallbox North America.
Bidirectional EVs can also store excess solar energy, reducing reliance on the grid and accelerating renewable energy adoption. Wallbox's Coil division will install the chargers.
"Bidirectional EVs are key to solving grid scalability challenges," said Angela Zhang, CEO of Bidirectional Energy. "We'll work with Wallbox to get these chargers installed and help EV owners earn from their batteries."
Quasar 2 is a 11.5kW bidirectional charger that allows EV owners to power their homes (V2H) or send energy back to the grid (V2G). It also offers a power recovery feature, turning EVs into backup generators during outages. The charger is compatible with all bidirectional EVs using the ISO 15118-20 protocol, including the Kia EV9. Wallbox is currently undergoing safety certifications.
