Ford Partners with SCE to Boost Grid Support

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Ford Motor Company has become the first major U.S. automaker to join Southern California Edison’s (SCE) Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP), offering electric vehicle (EV) owners in Southern California a unique opportunity to support the grid during peak energy demand. Through this partnership, Ford EV customers can earn financial incentives while helping enhance grid resilience. The initiative is part of Ford’s California Power Response program, which uses managed charging to reduce energy load and advance vehicle grid integration (VGI).

Key Highlights:

  • Ford is the first major U.S. automaker to participate in SCE’s Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP).
  • EV owners can earn $1 per kWh of energy reduced during peak demand events through Ford’s California Power Response program.
  • This partnership advances vehicle grid integration (VGI), benefiting both the electric grid and customers.
  • Ford collaborates with Olivine, Inc., which manages distributed energy resources to align EV charging with grid needs.

Ford’s California Power Response program provides a significant opportunity for electric vehicle owners to play an active role in energy management. By using Ford’s managed charging solution, EV drivers can reduce their electricity consumption during high-demand periods, earning financial rewards in the process. This initiative showcases the growing importance of collaboration between automakers and utility companies as electric vehicles continue to rise in popularity across the U.S.

Steve Powell, president and CEO of SCE, highlighted the transformative potential of the partnership, stating, “The future of the two-way grid is now.” He emphasized that EVs, like those from Ford, can make the grid more resilient by allowing power to flow from car batteries back to the grid during peak demand.

Ford’s involvement in the ELRP is part of a broader effort to maximize the benefits of electric vehicles. Bill Crider, senior director of global charging and energy services at Ford, explained, “Electric vehicles can deliver cost savings through incentives provided by leading utilities such as Southern California Edison.”

As vehicle grid integration technologies evolve, SCE plans to continue working with vehicle manufacturers and other key stakeholders to refine and optimize the system. For Ford EV owners interested in joining the program, applications for the California Power Response initiative are available on Ford’s website.

About the Companies:

  • Southern California Edison is one of the largest electric utilities in the U.S., serving approximately 15 million people.
  • Ford Motor Company is a global automaker committed to innovation in electric vehicles and sustainable energy solutions.

By leveraging new technologies and fostering partnerships, Ford and SCE are paving the way for future innovations in grid resilience and energy management.

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