Report: Variable Interconnection for EV Charging Sites

Report Summary: Accelerating Electrification via Flexible Interconnections

The Ampcontrol report explores how "Flexible Interconnection" programs, such as PG&E’s FlexConnect, provide a critical bridge for fleet operators facing utility capacity constraints. By shifting from static "firm" capacity to dynamic operating limits, sites can bypass traditional substation or feeder upgrades that typically take two to five years to complete. This strategy allows logistics hubs and drayage fleets to achieve full operational status up to 18 months earlier than traditional methods permit.

Ampcontrol utilizes its AmpEdge site controller to translate real-time utility signals into actionable instructions for EV chargers and microgrid assets. The system ensures reliability through a "fail-safe" protocol that maintains grid safety even during internet interruptions, while AI-powered algorithms optimize charging schedules to align with maximum grid availability.

• Faster Deployment: Sites can go online 6–18 months sooner by bypassing lengthy and expensive grid infrastructure upgrades.

• Dynamic Capacity: Programs like FlexConnect allow for 100% capacity during off-peak hours while shifting to lower limits (e.g., 80%) during high-demand grid periods.

• Operational Resilience: The AmpEdge controller integrates local solar and battery storage (BESS) to fill power gaps during utility curtailment events, ensuring trucks remain fully charged.

• Cost Efficiency: This approach avoids millions in upfront "make-ready" costs for physical transformer upgrades, making large-scale electrification financially viable for constrained zones.

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