2026 Event Schedule

As we step into the era of electrification, utilities are facing the exciting challenge of exponential load growth over the next decade. Maximizing the utilization of existing grid infrastructure is a proven path forward, leveraging DERMS platforms to interact with real-time and day-ahead grid conditions. This empowers flexible loads from Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) to connect to the grid based on real-time conditions rather than continuing to overbuild for peak loads. 

With over one year of operational data and learnings, PG&E's Flex Connect offer provides industry-leading support for faster energization of flexible loads such as EV DC fast charging. The requirement is straightforward: having a local energy management system that’s capable of receiving hourly charge limits via the IEEE 2030.5 communication protocol.

However, when we peel back the layers and examine the actual site conditions and software architecture, we encounter several challenges: 

1. Lack of end-to-end standards for flexible service connections: Fully Integrated Hardware and Software Products like Tesla's Supercharger can offer a local site controller and develop native IEEE 2030.5 on the site controller and obtain CSIP certification. However, the lack of a finalized standard and varying local utility requirements add complexity to the implementation. 
2. Non-Integrated DC Chargers: Most DC chargers are not fully integrated. The capabilities of charging network management software vendors are not standardized, and the market is still in its development phase. The one-time integration effort to support Flex Connect requires considerable investment and may be a barrier to participation for smaller companies. 
3. Site Deployment Involves Multiple Stakeholders: Site deployment usually involves multiple stakeholders, such as the host, a third-party EPC company, the construction company, and the software and hardware vendors. The decision-making process for site integration requires extra time and effort to align.

In this session, we will present together with one of the program's first integration vendors (ASE) to discuss how we address these challenges and share what we've learned to scale Flex Connect to accommodate different site conditions, along with our recommendations on how EV charging companies, utilities, and regulators can partner to further increase the impact of flexible service connections.