North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives has launched EVConnectNC, a managed charging program powered by WeaveGrid software that uses connected vehicle and charger data to help utilities manage electricity demand from electric vehicles (EVs).
The program is designed to shift residential EV charging toward off-peak periods, when electricity demand and power costs are lower.
By using information from connected vehicles and charging equipment, participating cooperatives can better understand charging patterns and how they affect local electrical infrastructure.
Unlike programs that require dedicated charging equipment, EVConnectNC supports compatible vehicles and existing home chargers. Participating drivers can retain their current charging hardware while providing utilities with data that supports charging demand management.
The approach takes advantage of the fact that EVs often remain plugged in longer than necessary to recharge their batteries. Moving charging activity into lower-demand periods can help reduce the additional load placed on electrical distribution systems without requiring drivers to change their usual charging routines significantly.
Drivers retain control over when their vehicles charge. Those who complete at least 90% of their charging during off-peak periods and use a minimum of 200 kWh per month can receive incentives of up to $120 annually.
The program also provides participating utilities with information about EV charging activity across their service areas. This visibility can support distribution planning as more vehicles connect to the electrical grid.
EVConnectNC is currently operating through Roanoke Electric Cooperative and South River EMC, with participating members already receiving incentives.
According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation figures cited in the announcement, electric vehicle registrations in the state increased 570% between May 2021 and May 2026. That growth is adding demand to distribution networks serving communities where residential charging may represent an increasing share of electricity consumption.
The program is intended to help cooperatives manage that growth by using existing connected vehicle technology rather than relying solely on additional electrical infrastructure.
Filed Under: Charging, Technology News