Utility With Choice Program Envisions Role As EV Charging Network "Provider Of Last Resort"

As part of a proposed Electric Transportation Plan included in its most recent electricity security plan proceeding, AEP Ohio said it, "can function as a provider of last resort in a necessary location," under a program meant to incentivize the creation of EV charging corridors

In testimony summarizing the proposed corridor incentives, AEP Ohio had said, "The Corridor Program will provide incentives for third parties to deploy DC Fast Chargers that allow EV owners to charge their EVs rapidly while on a long trip. The DC Fast Chargers in the Corridor Program must be located near interstates, freeways, or state routes. Through the Corridor Program, AEP Ohio proposes to provide incentives for 25 DC Fast Charger ports annually, with additional incentives for chargers in low income defined census tracts."

However, in the transportation plan itself included as an appendix, AEP Ohio noted that it can serve as a provider of last resort in offering EV charging if third parties do not fill the transportation "gap".

Specifically, AEP Ohio stated, "To qualify for incentives in these corridor locations there must be two DCFC at each location; each must be a minimum of 150 kW and must be available to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The preceding qualifications may be increased as technology and customer expectations evolve. The initial incentive per port is $20,000, with a 50% increased incentive available to low income defined census districts. In the event the market does not fill the transportation gaps, AEP Ohio can function as a provider of last resort in a necessary location. In this event, AEP Ohio would charge drivers the median price charged by surrounding DCFC providers. As technology evolves, AEP Ohio may set additional minimum specifications for eligible chargers in the program guidance. This incentive is eligible to be combined with additional grants or rebates, however customers are not eligible to receive rebate amounts greater than the amount not covered by other funding sources."

AEP Ohio's statement that it could serve as a POLR for EV charging services was noted in testimony from the Retail Energy Supply Association. Addressing the specific program above and other proposed programs, RESA recommended that PUCO deny AEP Ohio's proposal, "to use its monopoly power to offer products and services in the competitive market, specifically regarding electric vehicles, the proposed electric transportation program, and the energy efficiency plan."

Case 23-0023-EL-SSO