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PG&E has introduced a groundbreaking service called Flexible Service Connection, or Flex Connect, designed to streamline the process of connecting electric vehicle (EV) chargers, EV fleets, and large-scale batteries to the grid. This innovation addresses a critical challenge in California’s clean energy transition: the growing demand for EV infrastructure often outpaces the grid’s capacity, leading to delays in connecting new charging stations and energy storage systems. Traditionally, customers would need to wait for costly and time-consuming grid upgrades before they could access the power they need. Flex Connect changes that by allowing customers with controllable power needs to connect to the grid more quickly, without waiting for these upgrades.
Key Highlights
- Flex Connect enables faster grid connections for EV chargers, EV fleets, and grid-scale batteries.
- It leverages a cloud-based Distributed Energy Resource Management System (DERMS) to manage power demand efficiently.
- Real-world applications include Tesla Supercharger sites and PepsiCo’s EV fleet, demonstrating significant time and cost savings.
- PG&E plans to expand DERMS for additional grid efficiency projects, including energy storage and load management programs.
How It Works
Flex Connect utilizes PG&E’s advanced DERMS, developed with Microsoft and Schneider Electric. This cloud-based system coordinates a site’s power demand based on real-time electricity supply availability. Instead of requiring immediate physical grid upgrades, it allows customers to connect their EV chargers or batteries while managing power usage according to the grid’s current capacity. DERMS provides a day-ahead forecast of power limits, helping customers plan their energy consumption effectively.
Real-World Impact
At Tesla’s Supercharger sites, Flex Connect has accelerated connections along key California highways. In early 2024, Tesla used this service to activate two new stations in Santa Nella and Upper Lake ahead of schedule, with more in progress. Similarly, PepsiCo’s Fresno facility expanded its EV fleet charging capacity 18 months early, increasing from 30 to 50 trucks. This resulted in a reduction of 8,000 tons of CO2 emissions and savings of approximately $1 million in fuel costs.
Future Expansion
PG&E aims to expand DERMS for projects like battery storage near Yuba City and Kern County, optimizing solar energy use. The utility also plans to enhance load management programs, supporting California’s clean energy goals.
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