Hi everyone,
We know there’s been a lot of interest in EVs, smart charging, and V2G lately - and we’ve been hard at work testing how it will all play out in the real world.
At Amber, our mission has always been to accelerate Australia’s transition to 100% renewable energy. A major part of that journey involves EVs - not just using them, but making sure they charge in harmony with renewable energy generation. We recently wrapped up the first phase of our ARENA-backed EV automation trial, which explored smart charging technology. Here’s what we’ve learnt, and what it means for our customers.
Smart charging: Why it matters for Amber customers
Amber’s unique wholesale pricing model lets you benefit directly when electricity is cheap and renewables are abundant. Our EV automation trial took this to the next level, proving that automating EV charging in line with real-time wholesale prices unlocks significant value for our customers:
Lower bills: Smart chargers and our Amber for EV (A4EV) software automatically shift your EV charging to times when energy is cheapest.
Greener charging: Optimising charging to align with renewable generation reduces your carbon footprint.
Ease and control: With the Amber app, customers can set price thresholds and schedules, optimising for low costs or maximising solar self-consumption - particularly valuable in winter or on cloudy days.
The trial successfully connected over 850 Tesla vehicles via APIs and installed 100 smart chargers across Australia. It showed us that Amber’s model isn’t just good theory - it’s good business, good technology, and good for the planet.
The road ahead: V2G potential
The second phase, vehicle-to-grid, offers even greater promise. V2G technology turns EVs into mobile batteries, able to store excess renewable energy and feed it back into your home or the grid when needed.
Already, over 2,000 Amber customers have shown keen interest. But while enthusiasm is high, V2G technology faces hurdles, including limited charger availability, car manufacturer warranty limitations, and regulatory challenges. Amber is actively working with industry stakeholders - charger manufacturers, carmakers, and energy networks - to overcome these barriers.
What we need from policymakers
To unlock the full benefits of smart charging and V2G, clear policy support from government is essential. Amber would like to see:
Faster certification: Accelerate the approval process for V2G-compatible chargers.
Manufacturer engagement: Encourage EV manufacturers to officially support V2G under warranty.
Standardisation: Implement clear national standards to ensure interoperability between chargers, vehicles, and the grid.
Imagining the future
Picture a future where your car is charged automatically when solar and wind energy peak, providing not just cheap, clean transport but also stability to our grid. Amber customers are already pioneering this reality, but there’s still work to do.
With continued support from government and industry partners, we’re confident we can lead Australia - and the world - towards a sustainable energy future.
Cheers,
Chris
Co-CEO, Amber Electric
