In an effort to reduce wait times at its busiest charging stations in California, Electrify America is implementing a pilot program that limits charging to 85%. This strategy is being tested at select “high-utilization station” locations in Southern California and aims to optimize charger availability and reduce congestion for drivers. The pilot, which began in early July, is a response to the increasing demand for EV charging services, as more drivers make the switch to electric vehicles.
### Congestion Reduction Pilot
The Congestion Reduction Pilot targets specific stations based on their high usage and long wait times. By limiting charging sessions to 85%, Electrify America aims to decrease the time customers spend waiting in line for a charging station. The network has implemented idle fees and other measures to optimize charger availability, but some locations continue to experience congestion issues. The pilot program will assess the impact of the 85% limit on congestion and queueing and may be expanded to more stations based on the results.
### Charging Station Operation
Charging stations will automatically end the charging session once the vehicle reaches 85%. This limit is designed to prevent overheating of the battery cells and ensure their safety. While EVs do not charge at a uniform rate, reaching 85% charge is sufficient for most driving needs. Idle fees will continue to apply after a 10-minute grace period to encourage turnover and reduce wait times for other drivers.
### Electrify America Growth
Despite challenges in the EV charging market, including Tesla’s recent layoffs of its Supercharger team, both Electrify America and Tesla are planning significant expansions of their charging networks. Electrify America has committed to a 25% growth in 2024, while Tesla is investing $500 million in Supercharger expansion this year. These expansions are essential to meet the growing demand for EV charging services and support the transition to electric transportation.
### Conclusion
The Congestion Reduction Pilot by Electrify America in California is a proactive measure to address congestion and wait times at busy charging stations. By limiting charging sessions to 85%, the network aims to optimize charger availability and improve the charging experience for EV drivers. The pilot program will evaluate the impact of the 85% limit on congestion and queueing and may be expanded to more stations in the future. As the demand for EV charging services continues to grow, initiatives like the Congestion Reduction Pilot are essential to ensure a seamless charging experience for all drivers.