Austin, Texas, is accelerating its commitment to sustainable energy, and electric vehicle (EV) owners are now invited to be a crucial part of this green initiative. Austin Energy has launched its innovative Power Partner EV program, offering a unique opportunity for residents to participate in an electric car affiliate program that rewards them for smart energy consumption. This program not only benefits individual EV owners but also strengthens the community’s power grid and advances Austin’s clean energy goals.
For Austin Energy customers who have installed a Level 2 EV charger at home, the Power Partner EV program presents an enticing proposition. By enrolling, participants will receive an immediate $50 bill credit, followed by an additional $25 credit each year they remain in the program. This acts as a direct incentive for EV owners to become active partners in managing energy demand.
The core concept of the Power Partner program revolves around demand response. During periods when energy demand peaks, especially during the hot Texas summers from June to September, Austin Energy will initiate “Power Partner events.” These events, typically occurring between 2-7 p.m. and lasting up to four hours, are designed to reduce strain on the power grid. During these times, Austin Energy will make minor, remote adjustments to enrolled Level 2 EV chargers or compatible vehicles. This might involve temporarily pausing or slowing down EV charging to lessen the overall energy load.
It’s important to note that participation in these events is designed to be seamless and non-disruptive for EV owners. The battery state of charge will never be reduced during a Power Partner event, ensuring that your vehicle remains ready when you need it. Furthermore, no other vehicle functions are controlled, giving you complete autonomy. Participants also have the freedom to override event adjustments at any time and resume normal charging without any penalties, offering maximum flexibility and control. With a maximum of 15 events per month, primarily during summer, and potential events outside peak hours during extreme weather, the program is structured to be effective yet minimally intrusive.
By becoming Power Partners, EV owners actively contribute to enhancing the stability of the local power grid. This collective effort helps reduce the risk of outages and ensures a more reliable energy supply for the entire Austin community. Moreover, participation directly supports the City of Austin’s ambitious clean energy objectives. By strategically managing EV charging, the program helps to lower carbon emissions and promote a more sustainable energy future for Austin.
Changes to Plug-In Everywhere Program
Alongside the exciting launch of the Power Partner EV program, Austin Energy is also updating its Plug-In Everywhere program starting July 1, 2024. The Plug-In Everywhere program, a nationally recognized initiative, is adapting to the growing EV landscape in Austin. Previously offered as a $25 six-month subscription, Level 2 Charging Stations will now operate on a pay-per-use model at $0.09 per kWh, approximating to about a penny per minute.
This adjustment reflects the significant growth of the EV community in Austin. When the Plug-In Everywhere pilot subscription began in 2011, Austin had fewer than 100 EVs and just over 100 Austin Energy Level 2 Charging Stations. Today, the city boasts over 42,000 EVs and a significantly expanded charging infrastructure, including over 1,600 Level 2 Charging Stations and 30 DC Fast Charging Stations. DC Fast Charging Stations will be accessible at $0.21 per minute. Updating the pricing structure ensures the program’s continued financial sustainability, allowing Austin Energy to maintain affordability and accessibility for all EV drivers.
Austin Energy remains dedicated to its core principles of affordability, accessibility, and environmental responsibility. The utility is committed to powering its charging stations with renewable Texas wind energy, further solidifying its contribution to reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sustainable energy ecosystem. Both the Power Partner EV program and the updated Plug-In Everywhere program underscore Austin Energy’s ongoing commitment to supporting the EV revolution and building a greener future for Austin.
Enroll in the Power Partner EV program today and become a key player in Austin’s clean energy transition. For more information and to enroll your qualifying Level 2 EV charger or vehicle, visit https://www.chargingrewards.com/austin.
