Tesla Set to Launch Vehicle-to-Grid Programme in the US

Why It Matters

The program shows how EV batteries can become revenue‑generating grid resources, reshaping utility demand‑response models and accelerating V2G adoption industry‑wide.

Key Takeaways

• Tesla's V2G uses Cybertruck's 123 kWh battery.
• Program targets Texas markets served by CenterPoint and Oncor.
• Owners earn bill credits by feeding power during peaks.
• V2G leverages Tesla's existing Virtual Power Plant network.
• Expansion planned for California utilities later this year.

Pulse Analysis

Vehicle‑to‑grid technology marks a shift from treating electric vehicles solely as transportation to viewing them as mobile energy resources. Tesla’s Cybertruck, with its 123 kWh pack—roughly nine Powerwall units—offers a substantial discharge capacity that can be dispatched within milliseconds, far quicker than conventional peaker plants. By integrating this capability into its existing Virtual Power Plant platform, Tesla can aggregate thousands of trucks into a coordinated resource, smoothing demand spikes and reducing reliance on fossil‑fuel generators. This approach also monetizes otherwise idle battery capacity, creating a new revenue stream for owners.

The pilot’s focus on Texas is strategic. ERCOT’s isolated grid experiences frequent price spikes and weather‑driven outages, making it an ideal proving ground for rapid‑response storage. CenterPoint Energy and Oncor already support bidirectional flows, allowing Tesla to navigate regulatory hurdles more easily than in other states. By supplying power during high‑demand events, participating Cybertrucks can shave peak loads, potentially lowering wholesale electricity prices and deferring costly infrastructure upgrades. Early data from Tesla’s stationary VPP deployments suggest that aggregated distributed assets can provide reliability comparable to traditional generation, a claim the Texas rollout will test in real‑time.

Looking ahead, Tesla plans to extend the Powershare Grid Support Program to California’s PG&E, SCE and SDG&E territories, where time‑of‑use rates and renewable‑penetration are even higher. If the Texas experiment proves profitable, vehicle owners could see a measurable reduction in total cost of ownership, while utilities gain a flexible, decentralized reserve. However, widespread adoption hinges on consumer willingness to keep vehicles plugged in and on clear compensation mechanisms. Industry analysts view Tesla’s V2G push as a catalyst that could accelerate broader integration of electric‑vehicle storage into grid markets worldwide.

Tesla set to launch vehicle-to-grid programme in the US

By George Heynes · February 12, 2026

Tesla is set to officially launch its first vehicle‑to‑grid (V2G) programme in the US soon.

The Powershare Grid Support Program, announced by Tesla Energy, will enable Cybertruck owners in select Texas markets to earn money by sending power back to the electrical grid during high‑demand events.

The programme represents Tesla’s first implementation of true V2G capability, transforming the Cybertruck from just a transportation vehicle into a distributed energy asset.

Starting in areas served by CenterPoint Energy and Oncor, the initiative allows participating owners to support grid stability while receiving credits on their energy bills.

To participate in the Powershare Grid Support Program, Cybertruck owners must meet specific eligibility criteria. Participants need Powershare equipment installed, enrollment in the Tesla Electric Drive plan, and must opt in through the Tesla app.

The programme leverages the Cybertruck’s substantial 123 kWh battery capacity, equivalent to approximately nine standard Tesla Powerwall units. The system operates through Tesla’s existing Virtual Power Plant (VPP) infrastructure, which has previously relied on stationary Powerwall installations.

The Cybertruck’s larger battery will provide enhanced grid‑support capabilities compared to typical residential energy‑storage systems. Unlike traditional peaker plants that require ramp‑up time, the V2G system can respond to grid stress with millisecond‑level precision.

Tesla emphasised that events will occur infrequently and sometimes at short notice, requiring owners to keep their vehicles ready. Because of this, the company recommends plugging in vehicles whenever at home, even when charging is not needed, and limiting Powershare settings to maximise available energy for grid‑discharge events.

The programme’s upcoming launch in Texas reflects the state’s unique energy‑market characteristics. The Texas grid, mostly operated by ERCOT, is isolated from other regional grids and historically experiences significant volatility.

This environment provides an ideal testing ground for V2G technology, similar to how Tesla previously validated its VPP capabilities through gradual rollouts.

The selection of CenterPoint Energy and Oncor service territories targets areas with established grid infrastructure and regulatory frameworks supporting bidirectional energy flows. These utilities serve major metropolitan areas, including Houston and Dallas, providing substantial market reach for the initial deployment.

California represents the next phase of Tesla’s V2G expansion, with the programme expected to launch in areas served by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E).

Source: EV Infrastructure News