Smart charging allows EV batteries to store surplus electricity, while vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies enable them to feed it back into the grid during peak demand, helping stabilise the system, ease congestion and support renewable integration. Yet consumers still lack clear financial incentives. Unlocking this potential requires stronger price signals, better access to flexibility markets and interoperable data across the e-mobility ecosystem.
114 TWh of battery capacity by 2030 through EV batteries
Flexibility needs are set to double in the next five years in Europe as more renewables enter the system and end-use sectors electrify. The study estimates that EV batteries could provide around 114 TWh of capacity by 2030 – enough to power 30 million homes annually, or around 4% of Europe’s projected yearly electricity demand. Yet this potential remains largely untapped.
The smarter E Europe: Save billions with bidirectional charging
“Electric cars are fun to drive. Our study shows they can help EV drivers make money while stabilising the power system, but customers need choice in the market and clear incentives to act,” says Eurelectric’s Secretary General Kristian Ruby.
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EV sales have moved beyond the early adopters stage and must now appeal to mainstream consumers. Yet high upfront costs remain the main barrier to adoption, with sales dipping slightly year-on-year in 2024, though already recovering in 2025. By providing flexibility, however, consumers could significantly lower running costs, making the total cost of EV ownership below that of conventional cars.
8,600 chargers per week
Charging availability remains a key concern. Public chargers increased by 30% in 2024, reaching over 820,000 units, but growth must accelerate to meet the European Commission’s target of 3.5 million by 2030, which would require the installation of 8,600 chargers per week.
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“For consumers to play an active role in flexibility, the entire e-mobility ecosystem must help them consider EVs as something more than simply a means of getting from A to B. Easy-to-use smart-charging propositions with clear cost benefits are critical to consumer engagement and adoption”, added Serge Colle Global Power & Utilities Sector Leader at EY.
€4 billion savings annually for DSOs
On the grid side, distribution system operators (DSOs) could benefit from a projected €4 billion savings annually as higher flexibility partially reduces the need for infrastructure expansion. Yet, this can only succeed if DSO can employ real-time digital monitoring and have access to interoperable data at no cost, as foreseen by the EU in-vehicle act, yet to be implemented. (hcn)
