In Pictures: GM and PG&E Offer Free EV Charger, Paid Charging, and Grid Support in California

The GM–PG&E program bundles a free home charger with new EV purchases in California.

Photo by Reinhard Bruckner on Pexels

Managed charging schedules sessions for off-peak hours, when electricity demand and rates are lower.

Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

Participants earn payments for charging at grid-friendly times, turning parked EVs into grid assets.

Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels

Home and garage charging will anchor the program's demand-smoothing strategy.

Photo by Jakub Zerdzicki on Pexels

Pairing chargers with time-of-use rates gives drivers a direct incentive to shift charging loads.

Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

GM and PG&E say the arrangement shows EV batteries can support rather than strain the grid.

Photo by Giant Asparagus on Pexels

California's aggressive EV targets make managed charging central to keeping peak demand in check.

Photo by 𝓢𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓮 𝓦𝓮𝓼𝓽 ™ on Pexels

The free charger offer aims to lower the upfront cost barrier for new EV buyers.

Photo by Rathaphon Nanthapreecha on Pexels

Utility and automaker officials frame the pilot as a model other states could follow.

Photo by 04iraq on Pexels