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Sunrun Launches America's First Residential Bidirectional EV Power Plant

Sunrun's innovative use of electric trucks as a power source is a game-changer. It's helping the grid and putting money back in customers' pockets.

In the image we can see there are many vehicles. This is a road, grass, fence, electric pole,...
In the image we can see there are many vehicles. This is a road, grass, fence, electric pole, electric wires, trees, benches, buildings, windows of the buildings and a pale blue sky.

Sunrun Launches America's First Residential Bidirectional EV Power Plant

Sunrun, a leading residential solar, storage, and energy services company, has initiated a groundbreaking project in the United States. In collaboration with Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), they have established the nation's first residential bidirectional electric vehicle (EV) distributed power plant. The innovative system uses Ford F-150 Lightning electric trucks to support the grid and accelerate energy independence.

The pilot program, launched in July, involves three Sunrun customers who own all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning trucks. These vehicles are now serving as a power source, marking a significant milestone in America's energy landscape. During peak demand periods, typically between 5-9pm on weekdays, the F-150 Lightnings dispatch energy back to the grid. Participants receive payments based on the energy they contribute, incentivizing their involvement.

The system relies on the Ford Charge Station Pro and the Home Integration System, co-developed by Ford and Sunrun. This technology enables the vehicles to communicate with the grid, allowing them to send and receive power as needed. Sunrun CEO Mary Powell has highlighted the critical role vehicle batteries can play in bolstering the nation's grid and promoting energy independence.

Sunrun's innovative use of Ford F-150 Lightning trucks as a power source has successfully created America's first residential bidirectional EV distributed power plant. By dispatching energy from these vehicles to the grid during peak demand periods, the system helps utilities manage capacity and promotes grid reliability. The program not only benefits participants financially but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.

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