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The California Energy Commission (CEC) has awarded it’s electric, a Brooklyn-based EV charging company, a $1.1 million grant to develop the world’s first curbside vehicle-to-grid (V2G) EV charger. This groundbreaking technology will transform electric vehicles into grid assets, supporting California’s ambitious climate goals by enhancing energy resilience and promoting equitable EV adoption.
Key Highlights
- $1.1M CEC grant awarded to it’s electric for V2G charger development.
- Partners include UC Berkeley and University of Delaware.
- Charger enables bi-directional energy flow, pushing power back to the grid.
- J3068 Active Cable ensures compatibility across charging systems.
- Project targets 2028 market launch, focusing on disadvantaged communities.
- Supports grid stability and reduces peak demand costs.
Revolutionizing EV Charging
Unlike traditional chargers, which only draw electricity from the grid, it’s electric’s V2G charger allows EVs to return energy to the grid. This innovation is a first for curbside charging, where millions of vehicles park daily. By integrating bi-directional charging, the technology leverages EV batteries to offset peak demand, enhancing grid reliability and reducing the need for costly infrastructure upgrades.
The project, funded through the CEC’s Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC), collaborates with UC Berkeley and the University of Delaware. The team aims to certify and commercialize the charger by 2028, with testing at UC Berkeley’s Richmond Field Station. This initiative aligns with California’s goal to transition to a 100% clean energy future.
Advancing Equity and Accessibility
The V2G charger retains the sleek, award-winning design of it’s electric’s existing chargers while expanding access to low-income and disadvantaged communities. This ensures all EV drivers can participate in demand-response programs and V2G energy arbitrage, promoting equitable access to clean transportation and energy benefits.
Innovative J3068 Active Cable
A second breakthrough, the J3068 Active Cable, developed with the University of Delaware, integrates SAE-standard untethered charging with a communication module. This ensures seamless driver account association and compatibility across diverse charging systems, enhancing user experience and system reliability.
Leadership and Vision
Nathan King, Co-Founder and CEO of it’s electric, emphasized the importance of bi-directional charging for public EV infrastructure. With seven million light-duty vehicles parked on California streets, their batteries represent untapped potential to stabilize overstrained utility areas. Commissioner Andrew McCallister highlighted the project’s role in unlocking EVs’ potential for load flexibility and grid support, while Commissioner Nancy Skinner praised its economic and resiliency benefits.
A Step Toward a Resilient Future
By enabling EVs to function as distributed energy resources, the V2G chargers will mitigate peak demand growth and support a sustainable energy system. Professor Scott Moura of UC Berkeley’s eCAL noted the project’s role in advancing grid stability, while Professor Willett Kempton of the University of Delaware underscored its community-wide benefits.
it’s electric is paving the way for scalable, equitable EV charging. Interested parties can join the waitlist at itselectric.us/get-started to bring this technology to their communities. For more details, visit itselectric.us or learn about the CEC at energy.ca.gov.
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