In a bold move that could reshape how electric vehicles integrate with home energy systems, Polestar has launched bidirectional charging for its Polestar 3 SUV in California, allowing owners to use their EVs as backup power sources for their homes. This vehicle-to-home (V2H) capability, announced on November 18, 2025, positions Polestar at the forefront of a growing trend where EVs double as mobile batteries, especially crucial in a state prone to power outages and grid instability.

The technology enables the Polestar 3’s 111 kWh battery to export power back to the home, providing up to 10 kW of output—enough to keep essential appliances running during blackouts. According to InsideEVs, this feature is rolling out first in California through a partnership with home energy company dcbel, which supplies the necessary bidirectional charger.

The Mechanics of Bidirectional Power

At its core, V2H works by inverting the DC power stored in the EV’s battery to AC power usable by household systems. Polestar’s implementation requires a compatible wallbox from dcbel, priced around $5,000, plus installation costs. As reported by Automotive World, the system is designed for seamless integration, automatically switching to battery power during outages.

This isn’t Polestar’s first foray into advanced charging; the company has been exploring vehicle-to-grid (V2G) concepts since 2022. A post on Energy Matters from that year highlighted Polestar’s plans for next-gen vehicles, now coming to fruition with the Polestar 3.

California’s Energy Challenges Drive Adoption

California’s grid faces frequent strains from wildfires, heatwaves, and increasing demand, making V2H particularly appealing. Recent posts on X, including those from energy analysts, underscore the state’s reliance on virtual power plants (VPPs), where distributed batteries like Tesla’s Powerwalls have dispatched hundreds of megawatts during peaks.

Polestar’s initiative aligns with this ecosystem. As noted in a November 18, 2025, update from EVerything around EVs, the Polestar 3 can contribute to grid stability, potentially expanding to V2G where vehicles sell power back to utilities.

Partnerships and Hardware Requirements

The collaboration with dcbel is key, providing the r16 Home Energy Station that handles bidirectional flow. Engadget reports that this setup not only powers homes but optimizes energy use with solar integration and smart scheduling.

Installation involves professional electricians ensuring compatibility with home electrical panels. Polestar executives, quoted in Polestar Forum discussions from 2024, emphasized that while the Polestar 2 lacks this hardware, newer models like the 3 are built with bidirectional capabilities in mind.

Comparing to Competitors

Polestar isn’t alone; Ford’s F-150 Lightning and GM’s Ultium-based EVs offer similar features. However, Polestar’s American-made Polestar 3, produced in South Carolina, gives it a domestic edge, as highlighted by Inkl.

Tesla has teased V2H for its Cybertruck, but Polestar’s rollout is immediate for California owners. Industry insiders on X note that while Tesla’s VPPs have scaled to over 500 MW, Polestar’s entry could diversify options for EV buyers seeking energy resilience.

Economic Incentives and Cost Savings

California offers rebates through programs like SGIP for energy storage, potentially offsetting costs. The Cool Down reports that Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath has stressed customer demand for such features, saying, ‘Our customers are very adamant’ about sustainable tech.

Users could save on energy bills by charging during off-peak hours and discharging during peaks. A 2023 Electrek article detailed Polestar’s V2G trials in California and Sweden, showing potential earnings from grid services.

Technical Hurdles and Future Expansions

Challenges include battery wear from frequent cycling, though Polestar claims minimal impact with smart management. Regulatory approvals vary by state, starting with California due to its progressive energy policies.

Looking ahead, Polestar plans to extend V2H to more models and states. The Verge in 2023 previewed Polestar’s lineup, noting fast-charging advancements that complement bidirectional tech.

Industry Implications for Grid Resilience

As EVs proliferate, their batteries could form massive distributed storage. X posts from experts like Sawyer Merritt highlight how VPPs in California have grown, with Tesla contributing nearly 500 MW recently.

Polestar’s move could pressure utilities to adapt infrastructure. Electrek covered Polestar Day in 2023, where executives discussed V2G as a ‘game-changer’ for energy grids.

Consumer Adoption and Market Impact

Early adopters praise the peace of mind during outages. With Polestar’s Q2 2023 sales up 36% per InsideEVs, adding V2H could boost appeal.

Analysts predict widespread adoption by 2030, transforming EVs from mere transport to essential home energy hubs.

Broader Environmental Benefits

Beyond convenience, V2H promotes renewable integration, reducing fossil fuel reliance. California’s push for clean energy makes it an ideal testing ground.

Polestar’s sustainability focus, as seen in its charging guides on Polestar US, aligns with this, potentially lowering overall carbon footprints.