Tesla has launched its first vehicle-to-grid (V2G) program in the United States, beginning in select Texas markets. The “Powershare Grid Support” program enables Cybertruck owners to discharge their truck’s 123 kWh battery – equivalent to roughly nine Powerwalls – back to the grid during periods of high demand, earning bill credits in return.
How the Powershare Grid Support Program Works
Currently, the program is limited to Cybertruck owners in areas served by CenterPoint Energy and Oncor, covering the Houston and Dallas metropolitan areas. Participation requires a Cybertruck equipped with a Powershare Gateway and Universal Wall Connector.
Once installed, owners enroll through Tesla’s Electric Drive plan in the Tesla app and opt in to Powershare Grid Support. During high-demand grid events, the Cybertruck automatically discharges excess energy, and participants receive credits on their energy bills. Tesla noted that these grid events “may occur with little notice,” and encourages owners to keep their Cybertrucks plugged in at home. Owners retain control through discharge limits, reserving energy as needed, similar to Powershare’s vehicle-to-home feature.
The program is currently invitation-only during an early adopter phase, with Tesla planning to expand access after initial testing. For early adopters, participation through Tesla Electric will not impact the Cybertruck warranty.
Why Texas First and What Comes Next
The choice of Texas is strategic. The state’s grid, operated by ERCOT, is known for volatility and has faced near-failures during extreme weather. Tesla has been building its virtual power plant presence in Texas since 2022, starting with a 200-Powerwall demonstration and securing approval for two VPPs in August 2023. The company paid Powerwall owners $9.9 million through its VPP programs in 2024. Adding Cybertrucks to this network is logical, as each truck packs 123 kWh of capacity, significantly more than the 13.5 kWh in a single Powerwall.
California is next, with expansion planned for areas served by PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric.
Tesla is Late to the V2G Party
Tesla is entering a V2G market where competitors have already made strides. Ford’s F-150 Lightning has offered full vehicle-to-home capability since 2022 and already powers the first residential V2G power plant in the US. General Motors has committed to making all new EVs bidirectional-capable by 2026. Hyundai Motor Group is also running V2G pilots in multiple countries.
The Cybertruck remains the only Tesla vehicle with official bidirectional charging support. Tesla confirmed in late 2025 that the new Model Y Performance would support bidirectional charging, but this feature has not yet been widely rolled out. The Powershare with Powerwall integration has been delayed to mid-2026, after initially being promised for late 2024. Tesla’s then-VP of energy said in March 2023 that bidirectional charging could have been available two years prior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Powershare Grid Support program?
The Powershare Grid Support program allows Cybertruck owners in select Texas markets to discharge their truck’s battery back to the grid during high-demand events and earn bill credits.
Where is the program currently available?
The program is currently limited to Cybertruck owners in areas served by CenterPoint Energy and Oncor in Texas, covering the Houston and Dallas metropolitan areas.
Will participating in the program affect my Cybertruck’s warranty?
For early adopters, Tesla states that using Powershare Grid Support through Tesla Electric will not impact the Cybertruck warranty.
As electric vehicle adoption grows, how might programs like this reshape the relationship between vehicle owners and the power grid?
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