A systematic review of citizen perceptions and expectations of V2G adoption in the context of sustainable transitions

As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates, integrating Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology is increasingly essential to support grid stability and renewable energy uptake. This study systematically reviews empirical literature on citizen perceptions and expectations regarding V2G, addressing the often-overlooked social and behavioural dimensions of its adoption. Following the PRISMA protocol, 18 peer-reviewed studies published between 2018 and 2024 were selected from Scopus and Web of Science databases. The review finds that perceived economic benefits, environmental values, and financial incentives are key enablers of V2G adoption, while barriers include concerns over battery degradation, charging control, range limitations, and data privacy. A significant gap in the literature is the limited attention to governance mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, and public engagement strategies. The results highlight the importance of citizen-centred policy design to build trust and promote inclusive V2G implementation. This review contributes to the field by consolidating fragmented empirical evidence, offering actionable recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and energy stakeholders, and identifying pathways for socially equitable deployment aligned with energy justice and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).