The European Commission has presented a new set of expert recommendations designed to make smart charging, demand response and bidirectional charging easier to implement across Europe.

The recommendations were developed by the Smart Energy Expert Group, the Sustainable Transport Forum and the European Coalition of the Willing on Bi-Directional Charging. Their work focuses on simplifying the exchange of data between consumers, electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, energy providers and electricity networks.

A more consistent European framework could make it easier for EV drivers to participate in smart charging services and for companies to provide these services across different markets. The recommendations cover common interoperability requirements such as standards, digital identity, operating principles and governance.

Smart charging can help vehicles charge when electricity is more readily available or when demand on the grid is lower. Bidirectional charging can go further by allowing compatible vehicles to return electricity to the grid when needed. These technologies can support renewable energy integration, improve grid flexibility and potentially reduce energy costs for consumers.

For the EV charging industry, the initiative represents another step toward a more connected and intelligent European charging ecosystem. Common standards and easier data exchange can support wider adoption of smart charging technologies and simplify the deployment of future-ready charging infrastructure.

Source: European Commission — Expert group recommendations on making smart charging and demand response easier