EVgo's Connect the Watts™ initiative brings together utilities, funding agencies, permitting authorities, retail partners, equipment suppliers, and automakers to accelerate EV charging infrastructure deployment. This article focuses on utility partnerships and key improvements needed in the EV charging ecosystem.

Five Critical Areas for Utility Improvement:

1. Easement Process Enhancement

• Implementation of Access Agreements as alternatives to traditional easements
• Success stories with PG&E and SMUD, reducing project timelines by up to 6+ months
• Option for EVSE providers to create easement land descriptions

2. Equipment Inventory Management

• Need for maintained inventory of transformers, meter pans, and other equipment
• Current challenges with supply chain delays (up to 1-2 years for some components)
• Importance of proactive ordering systems

3. Dedicated Staffing

• Assignment of specialized teams for EV projects
• Single point of contact for improved coordination
• Examples: SCE, PG&E, SDG&E, and Dominion's successful implementations

4. Streamlined Design Approvals

• Faster processing of DCFC installations (2-6 weeks vs. 12+ months for traditional construction)
• Dedicated EV project review channels
• Improved communication between stakeholders

5. Enhanced Feasibility Studies

• Crucial for confirming power availability and interconnection points
• Successful implementations by Salt River Project Power, XCEL Energy, Seattle City Light, and others
• Reduction in project redesigns and delays

These improvements are essential for meeting increasing EV adoption rates and environmental goals. EVgo's utility requests are projected to quadruple in 2022 compared to 2021, emphasizing the urgent need for streamlined processes and continued collaboration between stakeholders.

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