Suggested Citation:
Jenn, Alan and Yanning Li (2025)

Brief: Balancing Electric Vehicle Adoption with Grid Stability in California: A Time-sensitive Challenge

. Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California, Davis, Brief UCD-ITS-RR-25-105

Abstract:

California leads the nation in a shift to electric vehicles (EVs), with ambitious targets for phasing out the sale of new gas-power cars by 2035. However, this transition raises serious concerns about whether the state’s electrical grid can handle the surge in charging demand. Without careful planning, grid infrastructure limitations and the associated costly upgrades could become a major bottleneck to widespread EV adoption.

To better understand this challenge, we simulated EV charging profiles (i.e., how, when, and where EVs are charged) across different types of locations across California, including homes, workplaces, and public charging stations. We then evaluated the impact on the state’s electrical distribution system. Our findings point to where and when the grid is most vulnerable—and what policies can help balance EV growth with grid stability.