We're growing the Supercharger network fast, so you can charge wherever and whenever you need to. We've iterated on design, construction, and process to install more Superchargers in less time.
https://x.com/TeslaCharging/status/2106060597800681646
https://x.com/TeslaCharging/status/2104863212160360912
But there's one bottleneck faster construction can't solve: grid capacity. That's especially true for the megawatt-scale charging like Semi. In Southern California for example, Megacharger projects can be waiting 3+ years in the utility queue for power.
https://x.com/TeslaCharging/status/2078163491354292356
How flexible connections workThe grid is built for its busiest hours, so it usually has spare capacity. A flexible connection lets a new Supercharger use that capacity now:
- Open now, upgrade later: drivers can start charging while the utility completes multi-year grid upgrades.
- Full power when there's room: when the grid isn't constrained, the site runs at full power.
- Reduced power when it's tight: when the local grid is constrained, the site can be de-rated. Drivers shouldn't be impacted, especially early on after a new opening. Sites typically run well below their maximum.
Flex ConnectWe've been doing this with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) through its Flex Connect program. So far, it has accelerated some existing Supercharger projects, with dozens more underway.
Drivers get Superchargers sooner, and the utility gets more out of the grid it already has. We expect a typical project to be able to open more than 2 years sooner.
Santa Nella, CA: 48-stall Supercharger site opened in 2024 with Flex Connect
As of this month, our V4 Supercharger cabinets can talk directly to PG&E's systems using IEEE 2030.5, an open standard for utility communications. PG&E can now set a site's power limit from day-ahead forecasts. Several pilot sites are scheduled to open this October, followed by a wider rollout in Northern California.
Principles for utilities
- Make the path to full service clear: share how much capacity is available and when upgrades are expected to finish. Superchargers utilization does increase. A flexible connection is a bridge, not a permanent solution.
- Start now, improve as you go: utilities without advanced grid monitoring could start with simple fixed seasonal limits and refine from there.
- Standardize communications: IEEE 2030.5 should be the protocol between utility systems and on-site charging equipment, and it's the one we recommend utilities around the world to adopt.
