GM Offers Free Home Chargers and Charging Credits to EV Buyers
General Motors (GM) is providing new electric vehicle (EV) buyers with a generous offer: a free home charger worth up to $1,999 and a monthly credit of $15, totaling approximately $180 annually, which aligns with the average grid fee reduction for households in Germany who accept throttling.
The Program Details:
- Eligible Regions: Northern and central California.
- Partnership: With Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E).
- Incentives:
- Free home charger (up to $1,999).
- $15 monthly credit for EV owners who allow PG&E to schedule charging during off-peak hours.
International Comparisons:
- Germany: Since January 2024, German grid operators have been able to manage new wallboxes, limiting their power output when the grid is strained. In return, households receive a reduction in grid fees, typically ranging from EUR 110 to EUR 190 annually. GM's offer matches this German benefit.
- Britain: Smart charging functionality has been mandatory for new chargepoints since 2022, with cars defaulting to off-peak hours and charging staggered to prevent grid strain.
American Offer Requirements:
- Eligibility: Open to PG&E residential customers with an active OnStar plan.
- Installer: Installation must be handled by Electrum, GM's preferred partner.
- Charger Coverage: The free charger covers up to 35 feet of conduit, with additional costs for trenching and panel upgrades.
- Software Control: WeaveGrid manages charging schedules, allowing remote start and stop, while drivers can override the settings.
European Perspectives:
While the US and some European countries have made strides in home charging, the EU still debates standardizing sockets, with Article 14(8) of the buildings directive aiming to simplify installations but leaving room for national discretion. California, however, is leading by example, securing homeowner consent one driveway at a time.