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Sunrun and BGE Collaborate on Nation’s First Vehicle-to-Home Power Plant

Sunrun Inc. launches the first vehicle-to-home power plant in the U.S., enhancing grid resiliency and cutting utility costs.
brian foreman sits in the driver’s seat of his ford f 150 lightning truck in the garage of his home in howard county, maryland. (1)

Sunrun Inc., the nation’s leading provider of clean energy as a subscription service, has launched the first operational vehicle-to-home (V2H) power plant in the United States. This initiative utilizes a small group of customer-owned bidirectional electric vehicles to support Maryland’s power grid during peak demand times. Partnering with Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation, the project aims to enhance grid resiliency and stabilize utility prices.

Understanding Vehicle-to-Home (V2H)

V2H technology transforms EVs into energy storage units for residential homes. This approach allows energy stored in an EV’s battery to be discharged back into the home’s electrical system during peak demand periods or power outages.

V2H systems use a bidirectional charging setup connecting the EV to the home’s electrical infrastructure. This setup enables the EV to draw power from the grid and supply power back to the house. During the day, the EV can power a home, helping to avoid high energy prices during peak periods. At night, when electricity prices are lower, the EV can be charged, taking advantage of off-peak rates. In a power outage, the EV can provide backup power to keep essential appliances and devices running.

Homeowners can reduce their electricity bills by using stored energy from the EV during peak hours and charging during off-peak hours. V2H enhances energy independence by reducing reliance on the grid, particularly during outages, providing a reliable energy source. Utilizing V2H technology optimizes renewable energy sources, contributing to a more sustainable energy system and reducing the overall carbon footprint.

Ford F-150 Lightning Trucks Powering Homes

The program involves three Sunrun customers within BGE’s service territory who own all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning trucks equipped with the Ford Charge Station Pro and Home Integration System, exclusively sold through Sunrun. By discharging the F-150 Lightnings’ onboard batteries directly to participants’ homes, the initiative showcases how electric vehicles can function as stationary batteries, reducing grid demand and increasing energy system reliability.

From June 1 to September 30, 2024, Sunrun will network and monitor the enrolled trucks as they share stored energy during dispatch windows from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays. Participating customers will receive payments estimated at $800 over the four months based on the energy shared.

Strategic Collaboration and Future Expansion

“This program is a significant proof of concept—no other market player has done this,” said Mary Powell, CEO of Sunrun. “This exciting partnership lays the foundation for the power grid of the future where electric vehicle owners can contribute to grid resiliency and utility price stability for everyone.”

BGE was awarded grant funding from the Department of Energy to create an electric vehicle virtual power plant. Partnering with Sunrun to develop and administer the program, BGE aims to assist its system during peak energy consumption times. “We know that the power stored in electric vehicles will be essential in our state’s effort to achieve its bold net-zero emissions goals,” stated Mark Case, Vice President of Regulatory Policy and Strategy at BGE.

Ford’s Role and Legislative Support

Sunrun has an existing partnership with Ford Motor Company to serve as the preferred installer for Ford Intelligent Backup Power. This includes the Ford Charge Station Pro and the co-developed Home Integration System—the first commercially available bidirectional system in the U.S. The Intelligent Backup Power allows customers to use bidirectional technology from their all-electric truck to power their homes for up to 10 days during an outage, depending on energy usage.

State Delegate David Fraser-Hidalgo praised the collaboration: “The ability of Ford’s F-150 Lightning to support the electric grid and generate revenue for the owner while parked at home is a game-changing moment for electric vehicles in Maryland and nationwide. Maryland has established itself as first in the nation on vehicle-to-home innovation.”

Behavior Insights and Future Programs

In addition to demonstrating vehicle-to-home capabilities, the program aims to understand the behaviors and preferences of EV owners. Insights gained will help Sunrun and BGE explore expanding the program, offering incentives for existing F-150 Lightning owners to adopt bidirectional charging, and developing vehicle-to-grid capabilities for community-wide energy sharing.

Chris Rauscher, Sunrun’s Head of Grid Services, emphasized the collaborative effort: “Virtual power plants with bidirectional electric vehicles will play a key role in the clean energy transition. We look forward to scaling these innovative programs with BGE and other utilities around the country.”

Future of V2H

Currently, only a few EV models support V2H technology. Notable examples include the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. However, more manufacturers, including General Motors and Tesla, are expected to introduce V2H-compatible models soon.

The integration of V2H technology is expected to grow alongside the increasing adoption of EVs globally. This technology holds significant promise for optimizing energy usage and promoting sustainability at the residential level, making it a key component in the future of energy management.

Original Story at www.environmentenergyleader.com

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COP29 Ends Amidst Criticism Over Loopholes and Disunity


The United Nations’ 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) concluded with widespread criticism over perceived loopholes and a lack of unity among participating nations. Environmental experts and activists expressed concerns that the agreements reached may be insufficient to address the escalating climate crisis.



Despite initial optimism, the conference, held in Bonn, Germany, was marked by intense debates and disagreements. Key issues included carbon emission reduction targets and financial commitments to developing countries. Many attendees felt these discussions fell short of meaningful progress. Learn more about the UN’s climate change efforts here.



A significant point of contention was the establishment of clear guidelines for monitoring and reporting emissions. Critics argue that the absence of stringent measures allows countries to exploit loopholes, undermining global efforts to curb climate change. The lack of consensus on this issue highlights the challenges in achieving cohesive international action.



Some developing nations voiced frustration over inadequate financial support from wealthier countries, which they argue is essential for implementing sustainable practices and mitigating climate impacts. This financial gap remains a major obstacle, fueling discontent and hampering collaborative efforts. Explore the Green Climate Fund’s role in supporting climate action.



Meanwhile, environmental groups emphasized the need for immediate and robust action, warning that delays could have catastrophic implications. They called for greater transparency and accountability in future agreements, urging nations to prioritize the planet’s health over economic interests.



As COP29 ends, the international community faces the challenge of bridging divides and enhancing cooperation to effectively combat climate change. Stakeholders are now looking ahead to future conferences, hoping for more decisive action and unity.

November 22, 2024

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024