Ford and Southern California Edison launch EV grid support program

Ford Motor Company has become the first major automaker in the U.S. to join Southern California Edison's Emergency Load Reduction Program (ELRP), which compensates electric vehicle (EV) owners for assisting the electric grid during peak demand periods. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance grid resilience and promote vehicle grid integration as the number of electric vehicles continues to rise in the U.S. market. Through its California Power Response program, Ford is enabling its electric vehicle customers in Southern California to participate in the ELRP, leveraging managed charging solutions to provide load reduction during critical times. This collaboration with Southern California Edison and Olivine, Inc. aims to optimize EV charging strategies in real-time, aligning them with the grid's needs. The partnership highlights the growing importance of cooperation between the automotive industry and utility companies to support grid stability. As electric vehicles become more prevalent, the integration of vehicle-to-grid technologies is expected to offer significant benefits not only to customers but also to the electric grid and local communities. Executives from both Ford and Southern California Edison have expressed optimism about the future of this collaboration, emphasizing the potential for cost savings and enhanced energy management. The program is a step towards realizing the full capabilities of electric vehicles in contributing to a sustainable energy ecosystem.