Why should you consider an electric vehicle (EV)? Nearly 50% of Santa Clara County’s emissions come from gas-powered vehicles. EVs not only improve local air quality compared to their gas-powered counterparts but can also save you money when you take advantage of electricity discounts with an EV Rate Plan and smart charging with GridShift, the free app to optimize your charging.  

Browse EV incentives, explore EVs in your area, locate charging stations, and more with the EV Assistant.  

Already driving an EV? Don’t forget to charge during the mid-day off-peak hours when electricity rates are low and the grid is full of solar power!

A new update for all Apple/IOS product users allows you to track when you are using energy at home! Electricity rates are highest during peak hours (4-9 p.m.) and lowest during off-peak hours (typically midnight-4 p.m. and 9 p.m.-midnight). So running major appliances or charging your EV during off-peak hours can help you save on energy costs.  

With the Apple Home app, Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE) customers can connect their PG&E account (account number can be found on your energy bill) and get a snapshot of usage trends. Customers can also look ahead with the Grid Forecast feature to plan usage around when the cleanest sources (like solar and wind) are in surplus on the grid. 

Want to take your energy efficiency a step further? HomeIntel, a program available to all PG&E and SVCE customers, offers a free online energy analysis based on your smart meter data. Receive custom recommendations for improving home efficiency and assessing your options to go electric.   

The addition of battery storage to the solar array creates a micro-grid for the Town Hall. In the event of a power outage, the battery can power the Town Hall for 12 hours, and can recharge from the solar to power the facility for an extended period of time.  

Battery storage continues to rise across the country and SVCE has surpassed California’s energy storage targets by committing to more than 100 MW of utility-scale energy storage.   

Sign up for Flex Alerts to receive live alerts from the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), the organization that manages the electric grid, when the grid needs your help.  

Santa Clara and San Mateo County neighbors will open their doors to showcase the latest equipment for home electrification. Discover efficient heat pump water heaters, heat pumps for both heating and cooling, induction cooktops, electric dryers, electric fireplaces, EVs, EV chargers, electric gardening tools, and more. You'll also gain valuable insights directly from homeowners on selecting the right appliances, working with contractors, navigating installation, and enjoying cost-saving benefits. 

Register today to secure your spot!