PG&E expects system demand to increase up to 70% over the next two decades as more EVs are added. To meet that demand efficiently, the utility developed a forecasting tool and integrated it into its distribution planning processes.
“A common misconception that we hear a lot is that the grid is not ready, or that increased loading from electric vehicles will overload the system,” Morelli said. “It’s definitely true that electric vehicles will represent unprecedented load growth,” but the flexibility of EV charging “actually provides a great opportunity to improve resilience.”