California’s electric grid faces significant challenges in meeting the state’s ambitious goal of transitioning to all-electric passenger vehicles by 2035. Researchers have determined that nearly two-thirds of the state’s feeder lines lack the capacity to support the anticipated surge in electric vehicle charging. This shortfall is projected to worsen rapidly, with over half of the feeders becoming overloaded by 2035.
The researchers based their analysis on detailed data covering the entire electrical distribution infrastructure of California’s three largest utilities. They utilized information on substations, feeder lines, and transformers, combined with data on electric vehicle adoption projections and charging patterns. Their findings indicate that total electrical demand will nearly double by 2045, with two-thirds of the feeders experiencing overloads.
Upgrading the grid to handle this increased demand could impose substantial financial burdens on utilities. The researchers estimate that the cost of these upgrades could reach 40% of the existing grid’s capital cost. This situation underscores the critical need for proactive planning and investment to ensure California’s energy infrastructure can support its clean energy transition goals.
