UL launches program for vehicle-to-grid certification

UL Solutions, a product safety testing organization, has launched a new certification program for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. V2G lets a parked electric vehicle send power back to the grid when demand is high, then recharge later when demand drops. Since most cars sit parked most of the time, this setup could turn a home EV into a small backup power source that also helps the local grid handle peak demand.

The certification covers the equipment that connects an EV to your home or the utility system, sometimes called bidirectional EV supply equipment, testing it against a new safety standard (UL 1741 Supplement SC) to confirm it works safely and meets utility connection rules. It's meant to work with EVs that have onboard two-way inverters built to a companion standard (SAE J3072). Related certification also covers "power export equipment," under a separate standard, UL 9741. Testing is available now at UL labs in Fremont, California, and Northbrook, Illinois.

For homeowners, this is not a rebate or incentive announcement — it is a safety and standards step that clears the way for more V2G products to reach the market with recognized certification. If you already have or are considering an EV with two-way charging capability, this kind of certification is part of what utilities and installers will likely look for before allowing a vehicle to send power back to your home or the grid. No specific products, costs, or availability dates were announced.