The StarCharge Halo V2G charger is a bidirectional DC wallbox aimed at households testing vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-home (V2H). Priced around $6,000 and currently limited to a single-phase 7.4kW model in Australia, it promises quiet operation (<40 dB), 96% efficiency, IP65 durability, and ISO 15118-20 readiness. On paper, it’s a more affordable way into V2G than rivals like Sigenergy and RedEarth—and early trials with Origin and Ausgrid add credibility. But our score is 2/5: a short 2-year warranty, lack of marketed solar integration, pending CEC approval, and only one power configuration temper the value proposition.
At a Glance: StarCharge Halo V2G Charger Score 2 out of 5
The StarCharge Halo is a bidirectional DC wallbox EV charger designed for homes and businesses looking to step into the world of vehicle-to-grid (V2G). In Australia, only the single-phase 7.4kW model is currently available. It promises to be one of the more affordable pathways into V2G compared with rivals such as Sigenergy’s V2G EV DC Charging Module and RedEarth’s Ambibox.
- Price: $$ With an indicative value of around $6,000 (from Origin’s trial announcement), the Halo is one of the more affordable V2G options but still far pricier than a standard wallbox.
- Company backing in Australia: 3/5 StarCharge has a strong global footprint, with manufacturing bases in Asia, the US and now sales in over 60 countries. Its use in trials with Origin and Ausgrid plus the company’s pedigree and global reach suggest it will be a long-term player.
- Warranty offer: 1/5 The standard warranty is only two years and excludes onsite labour and consumables such as cables, and there is no clear local claims process or FAQ/troubleshooting guide via the company website.
- Solar compatibility: 0/5 Solar rooftop compatibility is not currently a marketed feature of the StarCharge Halo.
- Functionality: 4/5 Silent mode (<40 dB), IP65 weather protection, OTA updates, and ISO 15118-20 readiness make the Halo well-equipped for home use. However only the 7.4 kW version is available in Australia.
Bottom line: If you’re an early adopter joining a VPP or keen to experiment with bidirectional charging at home, the Halo’s price and features make it a viable entry point. If you need three-phase capacity, stronger local warranty support, or proven real-world installs, you may prefer alternatives—or wait until approvals, warranties, and compatibility mature.
Company Overview
StarCharge was founded in 2014, establishing its Global/APAC headquarters in Singapore (2020). By 2024, StarCharge had manufacturing bases in Vietnam and the USA, with products available in over 60 countries.
The Halo V2G charger launched in Australia in mid-2025, and StarCharge’s spokesperson in Australia has confirmed it has AS4777-2 2020 compliance. It enters a small but growing market for bidirectional chargers, with early partnerships including Ausgrid and Origin Energy’s subscription-based V2G trials.
Popular Models and Comparison of Features
While the single-phase 7.4kW Halo is the only StarCharge V2G charger currently available in Australia, the Halo is also available in three-phase 11kW and a DC 19.2kW format.
| 7.4 kW Halo | 11 kW Halo | 19.2kW DC Halo | |
| Max output power | 7.4 kW | 11 kW | 19.2kW (bidirectional) |
| Input (AC) | AC single-phase, 230 V, 33.7A | AC three-phase, 400 V, 33.7A | 120/240Vac split phase, up to 85A |
| Output current (DC) | 24.7 A | 36.7 A | 200–920Vdc, up to 64A |
| Efficiency | 96% | 96% | 96% (peak) |
| Communication | 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, RS485 | 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, RS485 | 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, RS485 |
| EV protocols | ISO 15118-20, ISO 15118-2 | ISO 15118-20, ISO 15118-2 | ISO 15118-20, ISO 15118-2, DIN 70121 |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 480×332×175mm | 520×352×185mm | 578 × 403 × 200mm |
| Weight | 23kg | 27kg | 40.5kg |
Unique features & selling points
- Silent mode: Noise can be reduced to <40 dB, making them acceptable for residential garages.
- Smartphone app: Promises app control and integration with other StarCharge hme energy products.
- Durability: IP65 protection means weather-resistant outdoor installation is possible.
- Future-proofing: Offers ISO 15118-20 protocol readiness and smart comms (Wi-Fi, 4G, Bluetooth, Ethernet, RS485).
- OTA maintenance: Remote diagnostics and firmware updates.
Comparison to other popular models
Halo is pitched as the most straightforward residential option, but only offers a 7.4 kW configuration so may not be the best option for commercial or industrial premises with three-phase power available. RedEarth on the other hand offers 11 kW,, while Sigenergy targets whole-of-home energy optimisation with a 25kW DC module, now priced under $4000, that requires full system adoption.
Cost & installation
- While official pricing has not been announced, according to Origin’s V2G trial announcement, the Halo is valued at $6,000.
Buyers should also budget for:
- Installation: Wall or pedestal mounting, likely requiring a licensed Level 2 electrician. Costs vary ($1,500–$3,000 depending on site).
- DNSP approval: Because the Halo can export power to the grid, you’ll need approval from your local network operator. This can potentially involve extra paperwork and possible delays.
- Smart meter or energy plan upgrades: If using V2G to export power, you may need a retail electricity plan that supports bi-directional energy flows.
Pros & cons
Pros
- High efficiency (96%), reducing wasted energy.
- ISO 15118-20 and OCPP 2.1 ready — future-proof communications.
- Affordable compared with rivals in the V2G space.
- Silent mode offers quiet operation.
Cons
- Not yet listed on CEC’s Approved Products program, so DNSP connections may require extra approvals.
- Only 7.4kW config available.
- No real-world installs yet, mostly restricted to trial programs (e.g. Origin, Ausgrid).
Warranty & Service
The StarCharge Halo comes with the company’s standard EV charger warranty, covering 24 months from installation. Coverage includes critical parts, excluding consumable like cables and filters (unless failure is due to a design fault.)
The StarCharge Halo comes with a 2-year standard warranty covering key components but excluding consumables such as cables and filters. Optional coverage of up to eight years is available at an additional cost. Remote support is provided, though owners must cover call-outs, onsite labour, travel and routine maintenance.
An extended warranty of up to 8 years can be purchased, subject to inspection and approval. The claims process is structured globally, so Australian buyers should confirm who delivers local service, what additional labour or travel costs apply, and whether grid-related failures (such as voltage fluctuations) are covered under warranty.
V2G Functionality
The Halo is a bidirectional charger, meaning that it offers both V2G and V2H:
- Vehicle-to-grid (V2G): Exports power back to the grid, supporting grid stability and earning you credits.
- Vehicle-to-home (V2H): Supplies power to your home during peak demand or blackouts, just like a household battery.
This is done via the CCS2 plug standard and ISO 15118-20 protocol, with compatibility depending on the vehicle. At present most EV manufacturers in Australia need to update their warranties to cover V2G, presenting risks for owners. EV owners should check their vehicle’s warranty conditions before installing and using a V2G system.
Final Verdict
The StarCharge Halo is one of the more accessible V2G options for Australian households. Its 7.4 kW single‑phase format and ~$6,000 price make it appealing for solar homeowners keen to trial their EV as an energy resource. For early adopters and those joining VPP programs, it balances efficiency, functionality and affordability compared with higher‑priced rivals.
However, important caveats remain. CEC approval is still pending, and compliance does not guarantee vehicle compatibility. EV manufacturer warranty coverage for V2G is also uncertain, requiring caution. The Halo’s single‑phase design and short 2‑year warranty further limit its appeal.
As a co-organizer of the Northern Rivers Electric Vehicle Forum, Bridie is actively involved in EV advocacy and community engagement. She also owns a Tesla Model Y.
- StarCharge Halo V2G Charger | Independent Review - 22 October, 2025
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