November 18, 2011 – Edison Electric Institute (EEI)’s new guidebook aims to help electric utilities get ready for the expanding production of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs), it says, adding that the report “The Utility Guide to Plug-In Electric Vehicle Readiness” acts as a road map for electric utilities and their customers to get the most benefit from this technology. The Guide builds on the lessons learned by the electric utilities serving the cities and regions where the Nissan LEAF and Chevrolet Volt were introduced late last year, explains EEI.

The Guide focuses on:
• Getting the utility up to speed–The structure and organizational changes that a utility will need to address, as well as the value of adding PEVs to their fleet.
• Enhancing the customer experience–The educational topics and communication channels that will help utilities get their PEV-owning customers up-to-speed.
• Key passengers to include–The Guide offers advice on engaging key third parties such as state regulators: Federal, state, local governments; and additional stakeholder collaborations.
• Plugging into the grid–This section looks at how much power PEVs use; ensuring grid and distribution system readiness; helping customers plug in; and streamlining the charging station installation process.

EDISON ELECTRIC INSTITUTE