Renault and EDF, two major French companies, have announced a partnership designed to lower the cost of using electric vehicles (EVs) in France. The agreement, revealed on October 8, 2026, centers on bidirectional charging technology, which allows EVs to not only draw power from the grid but also send electricity back to it. This technology, known as Vehicle-to-Grid or V2G, could potentially save users the equivalent of the cost of charging needed to travel up to 10,000 km per year. The first services based on this partnership are expected to launch by the summer of 2027.
The V2G system enables EV owners to charge their vehicles when electricity is cheapest and then return stored energy to the grid during peak demand times. In exchange, users could see reduced charging costs, as they might be compensated for the electricity they supply back to the grid. However, the 10,000 km savings figure is described as a maximum estimate and will vary depending on several factors, including the specific vehicle, its energy consumption, battery capacity, and how long it remains connected to a charging point at home.
Beyond V2G, the partnership aims to provide a comprehensive solution for EV owners. Renault and EDF plan to offer services through Renault's dealerships, including the installation of home charging stations by a subsidiary called IZI by EDF. They also plan to introduce an intelligent charging control service that helps manage when and how vehicles are charged. The goal is to simplify the process for individuals by combining services such as finding a qualified installer, selecting a compatible charging station, and choosing an energy provider.
The partnership is set to launch commercially in the summer of 2027, primarily targeting residents of single-family homes. However, specific details such as installation costs, compensation for electricity sent back to the grid, and which vehicles will be compatible with the system have not yet been announced.
Renault and EDF Announce Partnership to Enable Electric Vehicle Cost Savings Through Bidirectional Charging
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