In a modern world where your fridge can text you and your doorbell knows who’s knocking, most residential electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are still stuck in the slow lane. While EVs are speeding into the future, the stations that power them have been left in the dust, often unable to communicate with the grid or adapt to changing energy demands. This technological gap poses challenges for both the grid and the growing number of EV owners.

To address this, researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory have developed an innovative solution: the Smart Charge Adapter (SCA).

This device can be attached to existing, non-networked charging stations, giving them the ability to communicate with the grid. The SCA lets utilities monitor, meter, and control charging processes remotely, turning simple outlets into key players in a high-voltage energy network.

The SCA is designed to be a plug-and-play solution, compatible with any standard AC charging station and EV. This means station owners can easily update their infrastructure without needing to replace it entirely. The result? A better, more efficient future for EV charging.

Argonne National Laboratory’s team took the technology to the Department of Energy’s immersive market exploration training program and received a grant to finish SCA development and utilized their internal Science and Technology Partnerships and Outreach directorate to attain patents in the United States and European Union. In 2023, they licensed the technology to EVmatch.

The SCA is also wired for grid management. It allows utilities to adjust charging times and power levels based on real-time conditions, helping to balance the grid. This means that when the grid is under stress, charging power can be reduced to maintain stability, and when there’s excess energy available — such as from renewable sources — charging can be ramped up to take advantage.

Argonne is also developing a related tool called the Diagnostic Electric Vehicle Adapter (DEVA), which will help diagnose issues with charging systems. DEVA can remotely identify whether a problem lies with the vehicle or the charging station, making it easier for technicians to resolve issues and keep EVs running smoothly.

By retrofitting existing charging stations, the SCA extends the life of current equipment, reduces waste, and lowers costs for station owners — all while enhancing the grid’s ability to integrate renewable energy and manage demand.

This technology received a 2024 FLC Award in Excellence in Technology Transfer. Learn more here and discover more awardees in our Honors Gallery.