StarCharge Halo Gets CEC Listing, Becomes Third Approved V2G Charger in Australia

StarCharge Energy Oceania has announced that its Halo 7.4kW V2G charger (model AD20074EU1923) has received Clean Energy Council (CEC) listing in Australia. It is the third charger to achieve this status, joining the Sigenergy SigenStor and the NUMBAT from V2Grid Australia.

The Halo is a bi-directional DC wallbox designed for residential and light commercial use. It supports both charging and discharging, enabling vehicle-to-grid (V2G) functionality. It is priced at AUD $5,990 including GST.

The Three CEC-Listed V2G Chargers

Australia now has three CEC-listed V2G chargers. The NUMBAT from V2Grid Australia was first. The Sigenergy SigenStor followed. The StarCharge Halo 7.4kW is the latest addition.

V2G Hype vs Reality

When the first V2G chargers entered the market there was significant hype. The idea of using your EV as a home battery was compelling in theory. But the federal government's battery rebate scheme has changed the value equation. Home batteries are now more affordable than they were, and in many cases cheaper to set up than a full V2G system.

A V2G setup requires a compatible charger and a compatible EV. A home battery is simpler to install given the extensive installation network and industry know-how.

Two Big Hurdles Still to Clear

Interoperability with EV Manufacturers

CEC listing means the charger meets grid connection requirements. But it does not mean every EV will work with it. V2G requires the EV and charger to communicate using the same protocols. Currently ISO 15118-20 appears to be the standard industry are working towards but only a handful of EV models currently support this in Australia.

StarCharge says it is actively working with EV manufacturers and industry partners to test compatibility and help bring ISO 15118-20-enabled EVs to market sooner. That work is ongoing.

Warranty Provisions

The other unresolved issue is warranty. Several existing EV models are technically capable of V2G and meet grid requirements. But most EV manufacturers have not explicitly stated that V2G use is covered under their warranty. Using your EV for V2G without that clarity could affect future warranty claims.

This is not a problem unique to the StarCharge Halo. It applies across all three CEC-listed chargers. Until manufacturers provide clear warranty provisions for approved V2G use, buyers should check with their EV brand before committing.

The Vehicle-Grid Network

The Vehicle-Grid Network (VGN) has been set up to align industry stakeholders and accelerate mass V2G deployment in Australia. It brings together charger manufacturers, EV brands, energy retailers and grid operators to work through the remaining technical and commercial barriers.

StarCharge has been involved in several early V2G trial programs in Australia and is collaborating with industry partners through this process.

StarCharge Halo 7.4kW Key Specs

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