Greater Toronto and Hamilton Smart Charging Pilot FAQs

What is a Smart Charging Pilot?

Optiwatt Smart Charging Pilots are designed to help electric utilities manage electric load and optimize the power grid. As EV adoptions grows in an area, it's important to have the right information and to be able to balance when EVs charge in order to maintain power grid safety and reliability. In the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, we are working with local non-profit and thought leaders TAF to kickstart this proces. This pilot program will help EV drivers automatically shift their charging to cheaper, off-peak times to save money and support a safer, more reliable electrical grid. It will also help plan and prioritize system updates as EV adoption continues to grow. Participating EV owners will also be included in special scheduled charging events. These events typically last about four hours and will be scheduled ahead of time. You will always have the ability to opt out of these events if participating would cause an inconvenience.

How will this affect my charging schedule?

By participating in the study, you agree to allowing Optiwatt, in partnership with TAF and local Toronto electric utility providers, manage your vehicle's charging. If you are a participant, this includes participating in periodic scheduled charging events, with each event lasting about four hours. You will always have the opportunity to opt out of these events if participating would cause an inconvenience. Aside from the scheduled charging events, the Optiwatt app can help you conveniently optimize your charging to while ensuring your car is charged when you need it. For those who have a daily schedule for when they need their EV, there are options in the app to set schedules and charging targets to have your EV ready when you need it.

How does this pilot help me?

For EV drivers that are on or considering Time of Use (TOU) or Ultra-Low Overnight (ULO) electricity rates, the Optiwatt app lets you set and forget your charging and save you money. Your EV charging will align when you need your vehicle with the cheapest charging rate times. This can save you up to 70% on your vehicle charges which can equal several hundred dollars a year.

You also play an important role in accelerating EV adoption in your area.

Will this pilot prevent me from charging my EV?

No. You will always have the option to opt-out of scheduled charging events. If you choose to use Optiwatt's optional charging features, Optiwatt will prioritize your departure time and charge limit preference to ensure you always have the battery level you need.

How long will the pilot program last?

This pilot program will last through June 30, 2025. Stay tuned for potential program extensions or additional program opportunities.

How do I participate in the pilot?

To participate and get the most savings out of Optiwatt, simply:

- Set your address

- Connect your EV(s) to the Optiwatt mobile or desktop app

- Find your utility

- Select your rates

EVs that allow for scheduled charging will default to "Allow Optiwatt to Schedule Charging" and "Support Your Local Grid." These settings let you participate in the pilot program.

What if I have more than one EV?

Optiwatt can control multiple EVs, helping you multiply your savings! The app will guide through adding each one after registering. If you buy another EV down the road, congrats! From the app Home Page you can add another device.

This same option also allows you to connect one or more Smart Thermostats to increase your savings even more!

How do I stop participating in the pilot?

We want to make this pilot as easy as possible for participants. If you have any concerns, you can email [e-mail] to get real human support to solve any concerns.

If you still want to stop participating, all you have to do is click the schedule tab, click on your vehicle(s) and uncheck "Allow Optiwatt to Schedule Charging."

If I have further questions, who should I contact?

Further real human support to any of your questions or challenges, you can email [e-mail].