Let’s talk about cities’ needs and priorities for smart and bidirectional EV infrastructure on February 20

On February 20, 2025, from 14:00 to 15:30, we are inviting cities, regions, and local grid operators to share experiences on the procurement of smart and bidirectional EV infrastructure. We will discuss common challenges, mutual priorities, and how cooperation and knowledge exchange can support European cities in this innovative field. Results of the discussion will feed into the creation of guidelines on the procurement of smart and V2G infrastructure via an annex to the European STF Procurement Handbook.

Register here.

Agenda

This 3rd Bidirectional Cities Event (online) will focus on the needs and priorities of European cities and grid operators when it comes to advancing V2G technology and smart charging.

Agenda 3rd Bidirectional Cities Event, February 20th, from 14:00 to 15:30

  • Introductory words by Gertjan Geurts, City of Utrecht
  • Round of presentation of local authorities and DSOs in the meeting

  • Integrating energy, climate and mobility policies in Utrecht by Matthjis Kok, City of Utrecht
    • grid-conscious charging and data-based roll-out of V2G infrastructure and chargers
    • e-car sharing as the ideal starting segment for V2G and smart charging, using an open market procurement model

  • Stockholm e-mobility strategy by Annika Bergendahl, City of Stockholm, including Q&A

  • From R&I to policy: updating the EC’s Sustainable Transport Forum Handbook on procurement and tenders for EV charging infrastructure to include smart and V2G specifications, including Q&A
  • Wrap-up and next steps

By joining, you will gain strategic and practical support for integrating V2G into your city’s public charging infrastructure. Whether you’re from a local authority or a grid operator, this event will provide you with the tools and network you need. 

SCALE Joint Procurement Program: Why should you join our events? 

  • Tailored Insights: Learn how to integrate V2G technology effectively with procurement guidelines, technical requirements, and real-world case studies from other cities. 
  • Collaboration: Exchange knowledge and experiences with peers across Europe who are also responsible for public charging infrastructure.
  • Support: Access hands-on guidance and best practices to take the next steps in procurement of smart and V2G EV charging infrastructure, from technical specifications to lessons learned. 

This event series is a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and explore the next steps your city or region can take to implement V2G solutions. Your feedback will help shape practical steps and guide the development of the programme. Let’s collaborate to make V2G a reality in your area. It will be facilitated by representatives from the City of Utrecht, a front runner on public V2G charging infrastructure!

Insights from SCALE’s 2nd Bidirectional Cities Event on the Joint Procurement of Smart and V2G Charging Infrastructure 

This autumn, SCALE launched a series of events focused on Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Implementation and Procurement, as part of a Joint Procurement Programme, specifically designed for those responsible for public charging infrastructure (destination charging) in cities and regions — from local authorities to grid operators. The first webinar kicked-off in October followed by the second event on 18 November, that gathered ten cities from around Europe with varying levels of experience in deploying smart and V2G/V2X charging infrastructure.   

Insights from the 2nd Bidirectional Cities Event

Cities future-proofing their EV charging infrastructure

The first city presentation was given on International EV Charging and V2G Initiatives from Sture Portvik (City of Oslo) illustrating the city’s anticipated future energy shortage and how solutions to deploy removable fast-charging sites and battery swapping stations, along with testing flexibility markets, could support ferries to address limited power availability in harbors, citing examples of combined charging systems. Three ongoing pilots were presented focusing on housing and mobility, along with SEEV4-City project with Amsterdam and Belgian cities. For Oslo, V2G is seen as a future necessity to optimise cost and grid usage, with participation in capacity markets deemed complementary to V2G strategies. 

The second presentation was given on Kadıköy’s Pilot on V2G for Disaster Relief by Mert Yaman (Kadıköy Municipality in Istanbul). As the district with the highest EV adoption rates in Istanbul, Kadıköy collaborated with Hyundai for bidirectional charging combats grid congestion while allowing earthquake resilience technology. However, challenges remain including the limited regulations in place for EV grid balancing and bidirectional chargers are not yet widespread. 

The third presentation was given on Current Status on Smart Charging and V2G by Rafael Waters (City of Uppsala) who cited grid congestion and unexpected lack of capacity for electrifying buses as a major challenge that helped the city to focus sustainability efforts with different options including biogas alongside hydrogen, noting that fully electrifying public transport not feasible due to current constraints. However, the municipality has an integrated research team that manages current smart charging, and they will be piloting V2G in 2026 in a commercial facility owned by the municipality, in a manner that prioritise user acceptance in future research efforts. 

The fourth presentation was given by Pekka Koponen (City of Helsinki) that spoke on the slow procurement processes for EV charging infrastructure deployment and no grid issues. The city owns the electric utility, and with 2030 climate goals, one-third of buses are electric. 10% of all parking needs to have EV charging capacity. Future piloting will be done through the ePowerMove project that will kick off in January to further develop V2G capabilities further with Virta. Existing challenges for V2G lie in the business model, exacerbated by current electricity prices. 

SCALE partners in the spotlight

The final presentation given by Tamas Toth-Balo (City of Budapest) on the Importance of V2G and Smart Charging and its role for managing available electric power, highlighted two SCALE use cases – V2B load managing and smart charging technologies, and municipal use case (7th District) with EMS hardware including rooftop PV, batteries and V2G-certified charging equipment. Remaining challenges include lack of supportive legislation for V2G and smart charging. While similar to PV systems in some respects, V2G has distinct use cases requiring tailored regulatory frameworks. Finally, key points were shared on the city of Utrecht as a “first bidirectional city,” by Gertjan Geurts (City of Utrecht) and Bart van der Ree (USI).

Linking research and policy via the Sustainable Transport Forum

The event concluded with an update on the proposed Annex to the Sustainable Transport Forum guidelines for public authorities to which cities can contribute though SCALE Joint Procurement Programme. After bilateral discussions, POLIS obtained the agreement from the EC to contribute to the updated revision of the STF Guidelines for tender procedure for deployment of public electric recharging infrastructure for cars and vans. 

The cities represented were invited to become involved in the Annex, by reviewing a draft and by contributing with a ‘best practice’ description.  

Key points of discussions with the participants

In an active discussion among panelists and participants, the following questions and action points were discussed: 

  • Smart charging is a first good step to take since it does not require OEMs on board – but agreements with customers and energy suppliers, before moving to V2G. 
  • Car sharing is a nice connection to V2G; city experience shows that often charging roll-out is separate to car fleet/car sharing; cities have a keen interest in knowing the lesson learned in shared e-car experience. 
  • Important to align charging infrastructure deployment with sustainable mobility plans of the city- often many departments oversee various related aspects – cities have to ensure that ample exchange within the city administration to see that these visions are aligned and commercial operators. 

Resources

Recording of the webinar

Insights from SCALE’s 1st Bidirectional Cities Webinar from the Joint Procurement of Smart and V2G Charging Infrastructure

Earlier this year, we launched a series of events focused on Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Implementation and Procurement, as part of our Joint Procurement Programme, specifically designed for those responsible for public charging infrastructure (destination charging) in cities and regions — from local authorities to grid operators.  A first webinar was organised on October 3rd 2024, a second is scheduled for November 18, 2024, from 14:00 to 15:30. We are inviting cities, regions, and local grid operators to share their experiences with procurement and projects related to smart and bidirectional EV infrastructure. Register here.

Insights from the 1st Bidirectional Cities Webinar

The webinar opened with a short introduction to SCALE by coordinator Baerte de Brey (Elaad) before delving into the story of Utrecht as the first bidirectional city (presented by Gertjan Geurts, Bart van der Ree and Matthijs Kok).

Utrecht’s V2G Journey

The municipality of Utrecht’s V2G beginnings started small with an initial pilot neighbourhood, it was seen as a ‘bonus’ in a public tender for charging stations for V2G-ready charging points. In its subsequent tenders for public and semi-public charging stations, V2G specifications became a requirement, demonstrating a gradual scaling up enabled in close collaboration with ElaadNL, the smart charging research center from the collective Dutch grid operators. 

Utrecht is building a bidirectional network (V2G) with presently over 700 V2G charging points in the city, growing exponentially in the upcoming years. While the city is building a V2G network, smart charging (V1G) is already implemented on a large scale and expected to be rolled out to most of the 4000+ public charging points in 2025. The approach is in line with the Dutch national Smart charging for all 2022-2025 action plan.

Two findings shared by Utrecht are: 1) that paused charging during moments of grid congestion can significantly increase the effectiveness of smart charging, and 2) that V2G offers significant advantages on top of smart charging regarding the imminent electricity grid congestion management. The latter is a severe issue in Utrecht with its high penetrations of rooftop solar panels (33%), growing deployment of EV charging infrastructure and rapidly rising numbers of heat pumps. However, this is not only an issue in Utrecht. It risks becoming one in many other European cities and regions. 

Making connections with the STF Procurement Handbook

After the insights and experience from Utrecht, Edwin Bestebreurtje from FIER provided an overview of the Sustainable Transport Forum’s Procurement Handbook with Recommendations for public authorities on electric charging and recharging infrastructure for passenger cars and vans. The handbook was presented because the work developed under SCALE’s Joint Procurement Programme could support the definition of the specific requirements related to V2G in the STF’s handbook. This could take the shape, for example, of an annex with or future revisions to the handbook on the current status of V2G. The idea is to include specific examples/use cases from cities already involved in V2G activities, such as the experience of Utrecht and ElaadNL in tendering for future-proof, V2G ready charging infrastructure.

Closing Words

In the final presentation of the webinar, Baerte de Brey (ElaadNL) contextualised the grid congestion in supply and demand, giving an overview of requirements for generators, or harmonisation of standards when connecting to the grid, providing recommendations on hard- and software for operators.  At the end of 2023, ACER submitted to the European Commission proposed amendments to the network code on requirements for grid connection of generators which establishes common standards that generators must respect to connect to the grid. 

Key points of discussions with the participants

In an active discussion among panelists and participants, the following questions and action points were discussed: 

  • Existence of charger manufacturers that can supply AC V2G chargers today
  • How SCALE has engaged with vehicle manufacturers to deploy ISO15118-20 on their vehicles, and to enable them to function as part of a fully open V2G ecosystem 
  • The legislative needs for cities and regions to tender V2G charging 
  • How would a general roadmap for V2G adoption look like 
  • What are the advantages of AC and DC V2G charging and will they continue to co-exist in the market? 
  • Harmonization of technologies, policies and protocols and the need to use/require open standards so that the system becomes interoperable, and lock-ins are avoided.
  • The new IEA Task 53 which could be approached for collaboration 
  • Interoperability between EV chargers and IS15118-20 cars now emerging on the market. Several partners in SCALE are testing that interoperability. 
  • The steps being made by SCALE to streamline cooperation between local authorities and DSOs for the integrated planning/deployment of charging infrastructure and the power system. 

Resources

The bidirectional city of Utrecht​: Our story: Why, How, What, the Results and the Future ​ 

  • Gertjan Geurts​, Project leader V2G/V2X/Smart Charging, City of Utrecht 
  • Bart van der Ree​, Energy transition – consultant and project leader, City of Utrecht 
  • Matthijs Kok, ​Developer E-mobility and New Energy, City of Utrecht 

Joint procurement program and the Sustainable Transport Forum Handbook  

Edwin Bestebreurtje, Partner, FIER 

European ecosystem for V2G 

Baerte de Brey, Chief International Officer, ElaadNL 

Recording of the webinar

We are launching an e-course for public authorities on smart charging

SCALE launches an e-course for public authorities on smart charging

SCALE is launching a three-module e-course designed specifically for public authorities. This comprehensive course coordinated by Rupprecht Consult will equip participants with a solid understanding of the essential concepts, cutting-edge technologies, and strategic approaches needed to implement efficient and sustainable smart charging infrastructure in cities and regions. 





Starting strong with a kickoff webinar 

In the kick-off webinar will start with a brief introduction of our project, followed by an introduction to the e-course and its relevance for public authorities in building knowledge on smart charging. Next, we will provide an overview of the course content and its various units, along with detailed instructions on how to get the most out of the course and meet the certification requirements by participating in discussion forums and completing short assignments. Lastly, we will offer a step-by-step registration guide for those who have not yet registered. 

The e-course kick-off webinar is on 12 November (12:30 to 13:30). Register now.

You can also register to the e-course now!





E-Course Fundamentals




What will you learn from the course? 

The e-course is designed for public authorities working on public charging infrastructure. It will cover:  

  • The basics of smart charging and V2G and V2X concepts and their benefits for cities and municipalities 
  • The role of EV users in the roll-out of future proofed charging infrastructure, which users rely on public charging, how they can help cities roll-out public charging, and other behavioural factors. 
  • The EU policy landscape on EVs, smart charging and V2G and what AFIR means to publicly accessible smart charging infrastructure  
  • A breakdown of the value chain, related stakeholders and the services that are in play within smart charging and V2G ecosystem 
  • New energy and mobility services at a glance from different stakeholders’ point of view 
  • Types of smart charging and V2G infrastructure and their main differences and advantages. 
  • The link between shared mobility and V2G: opportunities, role of cities and best practices 
  • Approaches to planning and designing smart charging infrastructure and asses charging infrastructure needs 
  • Procurements models of charging infrastructure and future-proofing, charging location planning and joint procurement opportunities. 
  • Funding charging infrastructure such as ownership, budget planning and funding channels 

Press Release: Launch of the European V2X Alliance

Photo: EVs charging in Utrecht (2019), source: Shutterstock, 1452754487


The overall context of the V2X Alliance

According to its 2030 climate and energy framework, the European Union aims to achieve at least 40% cuts in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from 1990 levels, at least a 32% share of renewable energy, and at least a 32.5% improvement in energy efficiency. Meanwhile, as part of the European Green Deal, the European Commission seeks to raise the 2030 target to 50-55% cuts in emissions and to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

The foundation of the European V2X Alliance

In this era where sustainable energy transitions are crucial, Horizon Europe initiatives delved into smart charging solutions for electric vehicles (EVs), aspiring to revolutionise the way we harness renewable energy. One of these initiatives, SCALE (Smart Charging Alignment for Europe), is now establishing the European V2X Alliance, an alliance that promises to spearhead the advancement and implementation of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technologies.

The inception of the European V2X Alliance

The establishment of the V2X Alliance is a paramount component of SCALE’s approach to fostering collaboration and enhancing stakeholder engagement. The V2X Alliance is supported by the V2X cluster Horizon Europe projects EV4EUDriVe2XFLOW Project and XL-CONNECT. The European V2X Alliance is designed to encompass a multi-stakeholder group, with the ambition the advancement and implementation of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technologies. This alliance will capitalise on capacity-building activities, best practice replication, and the development of synergy-enhancing events.

Goals and Objectives of the European V2X Alliance

The V2X Alliance has several core objectives that align with the broader goals of the SCALE project:

  1. Facilitating Cross-Sectoral Collaboration: by bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders from different value chains, the alliance seeks to foster synergies and improve collaboration across the EV ecosystem.
  2. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing: through training courses, webinars, conferences, and publications, the alliance will enhance stakeholders’ understanding and capabilities in smart and bi-directional charging.
  3. Standardisation and Policy Advocacy: the alliance aims to create a standardised framework for charging infrastructure, legal and technical integration of V2X technologies, as well as spatial integration strategies.
  4. Post-Project Implementation: ensuring the legacy of SCALE’s results by promoting ongoing deployment and exploitation of its findings after the project’s end.

Engaging diverse stakeholders

To achieve its ambitious goals, the V2X Alliance will cater various target groups:

  • Citizens and End-Users: EV drivers are central to the success of smart charging and V2X technologies. Engagement activities including surveys, workshops, and co-design initiatives will ensure their active participation and contribution to the system design.
  • Industry Players: The involvement of vehicle manufacturers, grid operators, CPOs, and energy suppliers is crucial. These stakeholders will benefit from joint procurement strategies, participation in capacity-building exercises, and access to SCALE’s insights and deliverables.
  • Local and Regional Authorities: Policymakers and urban planners will have the chance to integrate SCALE’s smart charging solutions into their climate action plans, guided by the project’s validated concepts and strategic frameworks.
  • Academia and Research Institutions: Researchers will have access to open science resources, enabling them to exploit SCALE’s data and findings while adhering to GDPR and confidentiality regulations.

What to expect

The European V2X Alliance, in its final form, will consist of at least 50 external key actors and will be built through existing partnerships, Innovation Clusters, EU projects, as well as networks with cities, regions, and operators. The representatives of each organisation that chooses to compose the V2X Alliance can expect their future presence and participation in the alliance’s activities (both virtually and in-person). This includes the possibility to participate in online and physical meetings, use-case tests in selected pilot locations, and knowledge-exchange activities (webinars and e-courses).

Participation in the alliance is voluntary, but its members will be strongly encouraged to sign an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding). After having expressed their interest, members of the alliance can join the group without any legal procedure and are not in any way bound by any legal obligations. Similarly, members may choose to quit the alliance without any legal procedures required. Nevertheless, upon accepting to participate in the alliance, members are expected to comply with basic antitrust and GDPR rules. Finally, participation in the European V2X Alliance does not entail any kind of remuneration or monetary compensation for its participating members.

The path forward

The establishment of the European V2X Alliance marks a milestone in the journey to advance smart charging and V2X technologies. By fostering collaboration across sectors, building capacity, and advocating for standardisation, the alliance is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the sustainable energy landscape of Europe. As we look forward to the future, the legacy of SCALE’s efforts will live on through the enduring impact of the V2X Alliance. Together, we can harness the flexibility of EV batteries to create a resilient and sustainable energy system for all.

How to join

Interested members can express their interest in joining the European V2X Alliance by contacting the following SCALE partners:

About SCALE

SCALE explores, tests, and validates various smart charging and V2X ecosystems, with the ultimate goal of creating a resilient and user-centric energy system. The project tests and validates a variety of smart charging and V2X solutions and services in 13 use cases in real-life demonstrations in 7 European contexts: Oslo (NO), Utrecht (NL), Eindhoven (NL), Toulouse (FR), Greater Munich Area (GER), Budapest/Debrecen (HU) and Gothenburg (SE). The initiatives within these cities are expected to generate invaluable insights, best practices, and lessons learned, benefiting stakeholders across Europe and shaping a blueprint for future implementations.


Press Release available in PDF format:

Join our Joint Procurement Programme for V2G-Ready Charging Infrastructure

SCALE is launching a joint procurement programme which is a series of events focused on Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Implementation and Procurement specifically designed for those responsible for public charging infrastructure (destination charging) in cities and regions—whether from local authorities or grid operators.

We are looking for members to join! Are you interested?

If so, register for the first bidirectional cities online webinar here, where we will start digging into needs assessment, procurement requirements and connecting with each other. You will be able to know more about this initiative!

Why should you join?
  • Tailored Insights: Learn how to integrate V2G technology effectively with procurement guidelines, technical requirements, and real-world case studies from other cities.
  • Collaboration: Exchange knowledge and experiences with peers across Europe who are also responsible for public charging infrastructure. As part of a V2X-alliance.
  • Support: Access hands-on guidance and best practices to take the next steps in V2G procurement, from technical specifications to lessons learned.
Interactive Event Series Overview

You can choose to attend online or in person for hybrid events:

  1. 1st Bidirectional Cities Webinar (Online) – October 3rd, 2024, 14:00 – 15:30 CET
    • Focus on needs assessment, procurement requirements and connecting with each other.
  2. 2nd Bidirectional Cities Event (Hybrid* in Budapest) – Either November 4th or 5th, 2024, 1.5 hours
    • Draft joint procurement guidelines and tendering processes.  
  3. 3rd Bidirectional Cities Event (Online) – February 2025, 1.5 hours
    • Finalisation and validation of the procurement programme by at least 15 cities/regions.
  4. 4th Bidirectional Cities Event (Hybrid* in Utrecht/Arnhem) – April 2025, 1.5 hours
    • Showcase of results and further scaling opportunities.  

​*Note: If you attend in person, there will be additional networking and surrounding events that may be of interest.

By joining, you will gain strategic and practical support for integrating V2G into your city’s public charging infrastructure. Whether you’re from a local authority or a grid operator, this programme will provide you with the tools and network you need.

Next Steps

Register now for the first bidirectional cities webinar here.

It will be an engaging discussion on October 3rd, 2024, from 14:00 to 15:30 CET. This session will focus on the needs and priorities of European cities and grid operators when it comes to advancing V2G technology. We will also share key procurement requirements and invite your input as we work together to draft guidelines for a joint procurement programme.

This is a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and explore the next steps your city or region can take to implement V2G solutions. Your feedback will help shape practical steps and guide the development of the programme. Let’s collaborate to make V2G a reality in your area! It will be facilitated by representatives from the City of Utrecht, a front runner on public V2G charging infrastructure

After this first webinar, SCALE will approach you with further information if you are interested to join other planned events and know more about the programme.

Join our webinar on Gender Diversity in the (Electro)mobility Sector

The SCALE project and POLIS’ Just Transition Taskforce are organising a webinar on March 8, as part of International Women’s Day, to discuss how we can tackle the lack of gender diversity in the electromobility and transport sector more broadly.

 

Coming together to rethink the sector

Worldwide, the transport sector is facing a significant gender imbalance. Women make up just 16.8% working in transport globally, with a severe underrepresentation in STEM roles. At European, local and organisational levels, addressing transport’s gender gap has become a priority as the intrinsic need for encouraging more women into the sector and their value is recognised. At the same time, there is a significant workforce shortage in the transport sector, which will directly affect the EV sector and the upscaling of electrification.

On March 8 from 11:00 to 12:00 CET, EU-funded project SCALE and POLIS’ Just Transition Taskforce are bringing together three speakers who are reshaping the transport sector to discuss how we can improve gender diversity, in which ways we can generate change with concrete examples, what challenges women (and other groups) face in entering, remaining, and progressing in the field, and more. Through pitch presentations and an informal conversation, you will get the chance to hear from:

    • Karen Vancluysen – Secretary General, POLIS

    • Afroditi Stamelou – Research Associate, CERTH (Centre for Research & Technology Hellas)

    • Raphaël Héliot – Policy Manager, AVERE (The European Association for Electromobility)

    • Moderation by Pedro Gomes & Juliette Thijs from POLIS

Register now by clicking here!

Who should attend?

You! Enabling gender diversity involves getting everyone on board. This session will offer valuable perspectives and actionable insights that everyone can learn from.

Together, let’s accelerate towards a future where everyone has equal opportunities to shape the future of transportation!