• Vehicle to Grid (V2G) allows an Electric Vehicle (EV) to export power back to the grid. In order to export to the grid, the EV must be paired with a distributed energy resource system (solar, wind, etc.) that meets the requirements for an exporting system under Schedule 6, Schedule 8, or Schedule 84. EVs by themselves are considered energy storage devices and are not allowed to export to the grid unless paired with an approved exporting generation system. V2G applications require a specialized charger that can export power to the grid in a manner that is safe and complies with all Schedule 68  interconnection requirements, just as a solar inverter would.
• Vehicle to Home (V2H) is a technology that allows the energy stored in an EV to be used as a power source for the home. This function is much like a traditional back-up generator. V2H requires a specific type of EV charger to be installed, which not only allows for two-way charging but also converts AC (alternating current) from the grid into the DC (direct current) used by EVs and vice versa. Additionally, it is necessary to have a transfer switch (a device that ensures the system doesn’t back feed power onto the grid during outages) that completely isolates the vehicle and backed up loads from Idaho Power’s grid. The switch should be installed by a qualified electrician and permitted.
• Vehicle to Load (V2L) is a simple technology that allows appliances (refrigerators, TVs, or power tools) to be plugged into the EV, via use of onboard 110- or 220-volt power plugs.

One feature some electric vehicles offer is the ability to use the vehicle as a backup power source for your home or business in the case of a power outage. Depending on how its configured, some additional Idaho Power requirements apply.

• If the electric vehicle is connected in parallel with Idaho Power (Vehicle to Grid), meaning it is connected to and receives voltage from Idaho Power’s electrical system, the system must come through Idaho Power’s interconnection process and meet the requirements of Schedule 68 Interconnections to customer Distributed Energy Resources.
• If connected like a portable generator (Vehicle to Home), with a transfer switch (a device that ensures the system doesn’t back feed power onto the grid during outages) that completely separates the vehicle and backed up loads from Idaho Power’s grid, ensure the switch is installed by a qualified electrician and permitted.

Some vehicles offer vehicle to grid (V2G) applications, where power from the vehicle may flow back the electric utility system. In order to export to the grid, the EV must be paired with a distributed energy resource system (solar, wind, etc..) that meets the requirements for an exporting system under Schedule 6, Schedule 8, or Schedule 84. EVs by themselves are considered energy storage devices and are not allowed to export to the grid unless paired with an approved exporting generation system.

Under Idaho Power’s Schedule 68  interconnection requirements, EVs can export to Idaho Power if all of the following criteria are met:

• The EV is paired with a distributed energy resource system (solar, wind, etc.).
• The EV charging system includes a specialized charger that can safely connect to the grid and complies with all Schedule 68 requirements.
• Before connecting a V2G , the on-site renewable generation system (including the EV energy storage device) must complete Idaho Power’s interconnection process. For more information on the interconnection process and to begin an application, please visit Apply to Connect Your System.

Vehicle to Grid (V2G) applications require a specialized charger that can export power to the grid in a manner that is safe and complies with all Schedule 68 interconnection requirements, just as a solar inverter would.

For homes that already have a distributed energy resource (solar, wind etc.), it is necessary to submit an interconnection application to Idaho Power to add an electric vehicle for grid export. For more information on the application process, please visit Apply to Connect Your System.

The cost of installing a V2G charging station can vary between charger manufacturers. As of 2024, a standard level 2 home charger costs between $500 to $1500, plus installation. While an equivalent V2G system costs $6,000 to $10,000, plus installation. Be sure to check with the vehicle manufacturers’ requirements as some may limit the amount of energy that can be pulled from a vehicle without violating the terms of the vehicle warranty.

Vehicle models prior to 2024 may not be capable of V2G charging. Vehicle chargers that are marketed as Vehicle to Home (V2H) in most cases do not meet the requirements for V2G. Check with your vehicle manufacturer to determine if you have V2G or V2H capabilities.

Customers who have EVs can switch to Time of Use and monitor and adjust their energy use Monday-Saturday (Sunday and holiday monitoring is not required). By shifting their heaviest electricity use — like laundry or electrical vehicle charging — to off-peak hours, Time of Use customers use less energy during high-demand times of the day, help reduce the demand on the system, pay less for their electricity, and potentially reduce their overall power bill. 

Click here to learn more about Time of Use.

Yes, owning an electric vehicle (EV) will likely increase your electric bill because you’ll be charging your car at home. However, the overall cost can still be lower compared to fueling a gas-powered car.