Power Out? Let Your EV Handle It

Eaton’s new tech turns EVs into home generators for a smarter, steadier energy future

15 Jan 2025

Eaton has introduced a new vehicle-to-home (V2H) charging system that allows electric vehicles to power homes during outages, positioning the technology group at the forefront of the push for greater household energy resilience.

Revealed at CES 2025, Eaton’s AbleEdge system enables EVs to act as temporary generators, supplying between 10 and 20 hours of backup electricity depending on the vehicle’s battery capacity and a home’s energy use. The company described the launch as a response to rising concerns over grid reliability amid more frequent extreme weather events.

“This isn’t just a backup plan. It’s a blueprint for smarter living,” an Eaton spokesperson said. “AbleEdge gives families control, safety, and peace of mind when the grid fails.”

The system links an EV to both the home and the electricity grid, integrating with solar panels and stationary battery storage to optimise how power is distributed. Eaton’s smart breakers allow homeowners to prioritise which appliances remain active during a power cut, enhancing flexibility.

To support adoption, Eaton has partnered with Treehouse, a digital installation network that offers standardised pricing and professional setup services. The collaboration aims to lower the entry barrier for consumers seeking advanced home energy solutions.

The launch reflects a broader trend among manufacturers exploring bidirectional energy flow between vehicles and homes. Automakers such as Ford and Nissan already offer models capable of feeding power back into buildings, though the complexity of home integration has slowed widespread use. Eaton’s system addresses that challenge directly by providing a complete home interface.

While the company did not disclose pricing, analysts say installation costs and varying state regulations could affect uptake. Still, the initiative highlights how EVs are evolving beyond transport to become components of local energy systems.

As households seek greater energy independence, technologies like AbleEdge may help redefine the role of the car, from a mode of travel to a key source of home power security.