CAN THE GRID HANDLE ALL THESE EVS? CODY SMITH, CA ISO, RC WEST, THE INEVITABLE

EV Channels Review

This episode of The Inevitable tackles a critical question: can the power grid handle the influx of electric vehicles? Cody Smith from California ISO provides an expert perspective, debunking the myth that the grid is incapable. He explains the efficiency gains from deregulated energy markets and how regionalization benefits all participants. A key takeaway is the significant role of battery storage, largely driven by EV technology, in managing peak demand and integrating renewables. While acknowledging past grid challenges, like the 2020 curtailment event, Smith asserts that grid development is outpacing EV adoption, making the 2035 all-EV sales target feasible for California. The discussion also touches upon the growing energy demands of AI and data centers, presenting a new frontier for grid management.