SunCast 811: The EV Tsunami Is Here. Are Utilities Ready? With Rachel Bryant | GridX
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May 6, 2025 Rachel Bryant, an engineer and lawyer at GridX, shares her insights on the future of utilities amidst the EV revolution. She discusses how confusing tariff structures can be reshaped for better customer engagement and smarter energy use. Rachel explains the need for time-variable pricing to stabilize the grid while accommodating solar and EV demands. She reveals how advanced data tools can empower consumers to understand their bills better and why EVs are key to active grid participation. The conversation also touches on the hurdles some utilities face in adopting innovative pricing.
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Time Variable Rates Balance Grid
- Time variable rates align the cost customers pay with grid supply and demand at different times.
- This alignment helps balance the grid and manage peak loads effectively.
Traditional Rates Are Failing
- Traditional cost-of-service rate structures are failing under EV, solar, and electrification pressures.
- Time-of-use rates reflect actual grid costs better and help manage demand peaks.
Make Rate Options Visible
- Utilities should showcase customer options in online portals with easy tools like dropdowns.
- Leveraging smart meter data helps customers predict charges and choose optimized rate plans.