Energy software platform Kaluza has been selected as an Automation Service Provider for Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) new Hourly Flex Pricing (HFP) pilot. The scheme aims to make electric vehicle (EV) charging cheaper and more sustainable by shifting usage to times of lower electricity demand and higher renewable energy availability.
The partnership builds on Kaluza’s existing work in California, including its REDWDS programme, supported by the California Energy Commission. Launched in February 2024, REDWDS enables customers to save up to 60% on their home energy bills, with a focus on making clean energy benefits more accessible. Around half of Kaluza’s enrolled drivers come from disadvantaged or low-income communities.
Under the HFP pilot, EV owners using Kaluza-integrated chargepoints can opt into an automated system that schedules charging at the most cost-effective times. Through a mobile app, drivers can set preferences and leave the platform to manage the rest, ensuring they benefit from lower prices while contributing to grid stability.
The initiative also introduces bidirectional Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) charging, allowing EV batteries to feed energy back into the home or the grid when needed. This technology increases resilience in the energy network while giving consumers further control over their energy usage and costs.
A global approach to smart charging
Kaluza, which operates in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, has developed software that enables utilities and consumers to optimise electricity use. The company’s approach to managed charging supports the transition to renewable energy by reducing reliance on fossil fuel generation at peak times.
Jonathan Levy, Managing Director for Kaluza in the US and Japan, welcomed the collaboration with PG&E, saying:
“Kaluza strongly supports PG&E and other utilities rolling out new innovative rates that allow drivers to benefit from their active role in shaping a stable, renewable-powered system.
“These time-of-use electricity rates are an important tool that software platforms can harness to deliver a win-win-win for customers’ energy bills, the grid, and the planet.”
PG&E’s HFP pilot is part of a wider effort to modernise electricity pricing, encouraging EV users to charge their vehicles when demand on the grid is lower. By shifting energy consumption to off-peak hours, the scheme aims to reduce strain on infrastructure, lower emissions, and help California meet its clean energy targets.
Levy praised PG&E for its willingness to embrace new technologies, adding:
“We’re delighted to add them to our growing roster of global utility clients and excited to scale our active managed charging programme in California to make EV ownership more affordable, inclusive, and easy through seamless customer experiences.”
Enrolment open for EV drivers
EV drivers in eligible areas can now sign up for the programme and start earning savings. By using Kaluza’s technology, participants will be able to charge their vehicles in a way that is both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.
More details about the scheme and how to enrol can be found at calicharge.energy.