What is the enhanced Smart Charge program?
This pilot program builds on DTE's existing Smart Charge program by optimizing when your EV charges based on local electrical needs, in addition to system-wide electricity costs and availability. By coordinating charging schedules among EVs in the same area, we can reduce peak demand in your neighborhood.
Why was I selected?
You were selected based on your location and participation in the standard Smart Charge program. Your area has been identified as one where coordinated EV charging can provide significant benefits.
How is this different from the regular Smart Charge program?
The regular Smart Charge program optimizes your charging based on system-wide electricity prices and renewable energy availability. This enhanced pilot adds an additional layer of optimization focused on the local electric demand. You may notice slightly different charging patterns, but your vehicle will always be ready when you need it.
Why does local demand matter?
A single EV can double or triple a household's electricity demand, and when multiple EVs in the same neighborhood charge simultaneously, it can greatly increase the need for energy in one area. This program helps us coordinate charging across multiple electric vehicles within a neighborhood to better manage demand in your area.
Will my car still be fully charged when I need it?
Yes, absolutely. Your vehicle will always be charged and ready by the time you've set in your WeaveGrid portal. The program simply adjusts when during the off-peak period your charging occurs, not whether you receive a full charge.
What are the benefits of participating?
For you:
- Doubled monthly incentive ($10/month vs. $5/month)
- Continued low-cost charging during off-peak periods
- Same seamless charging experience
For all DTE customers:
- More efficient use of existing infrastructure
- Avoided upgrade costs that could impact electricity rates
- Faster, more affordable EV adoption across Michigan
How does coordinated charging help my neighborhood?
When multiple EVs charge simultaneously, they can create sudden spikes in electricity demand. By coordinating charging schedules, we spread this demand more evenly throughout the night. Think of it like traffic management – we're helping vehicles "travel" at different times to avoid congestion on local roads.
Will I notice any difference in how my car charges?
Most customers won't notice any change. Your charging may start at slightly different times during the off-peak period, but your vehicle will be fully charged by your ready-by time. You'll continue to receive the same reliable charging experience.
Can I still override my charging schedule?
Yes. You maintain complete control of your vehicle and can override any charging schedule at any time. See Can I cancel an Automatic Smart Charging schedule if needed?
How much am I earning?
You'll receive $10 per month via email gift card for participating in this enhanced pilot program – double the standard Smart Charge incentive. This increase will begin with your next scheduled gift card payment.
How long does this program run?
The enhanced program is scheduled to run through December 2026. DTE Energy will notify you before the program ends with information about next steps.
What data is being collected?
We collect the same charging data as the standard Smart Charge program: plug-in and plug-out times, charging start and stop times, energy delivered to your vehicle, and battery state of charge. This data helps us optimize your charging schedule and evaluate the program's effectiveness. Your data is protected in accordance with DTE’s program Terms and Conditions and WeaveGrid's privacy policy.
Can I opt out?
Yes, you can opt out of the enhanced pilot program at any time without penalty. If you opt out, you'll return to the standard Smart Charge program with the standard $5/month incentive. To opt out, contact us at dte-support@weavegrid.com. You can also exit the program at any time by contacting dte-support@weavegrid.com.
Why is this program important?
Electric vehicle adoption is growing rapidly, which is great for the environment and for reducing transportation costs. This pilot helps us learn how to enable widespread EV adoption while managing electric demand at a neighborhood level, reducing environmental impact and costs for everyone.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Contact the WeaveGrid for DTE Smart Charge support team at dte-support@weavegrid.com. We typically respond within one business day.
What happens after the enhanced program ends?
We'll evaluate the results of the pilot program and share learnings with you. Depending on the outcomes, DTE Energy may expand the program to more customers or incorporate these capabilities into the standard Smart Charge offering. We'll communicate with you before the pilot ends about next steps and any changes to your participation or incentives.