Smart Tariffs, Flexible Homes, and a Smarter Grid: Inside Octopus Talks with San José Clean Energy

In the latest episode of Inside Octopus, host Russell Goldsmith takes a deep dive into the future of domestic energy flexibility in the U.S. with Nick Chaset, CEO of Octopus Energy US, and Lori Mitchell, Director of San José Clean Energy (SJCE). The conversation explores how smart tariffs, customer engagement, and flexible technologies can transform both residential and commercial energy systems—starting with San José.

Navigating U.S. Energy Markets with a Flexibility-Focused Approach 

Nick Chaset, drawing on his background in leading community energy programs, discussed how energy providers are adapting to the complex and varied regulatory landscape in the U.S. Unlike in Europe, where consumer choice among electricity providers is common, many U.S. states—California included—offer limited options. This has prompted some companies to explore alternative models that work within existing utility structures. One emerging strategy involves partnering with utilities to manage energy use from flexible home devices such as EV chargers, solar-plus-storage systems, and smart thermostats. The aim is to shift energy consumption to times that benefit both the grid and customers, without disrupting comfort or service 

San José’s Clean Energy Ambitions

Lori Mitchell shares how SJCE, launched in 2017, now serves 97% of San Jose residents and businesses, including major tech players like Adobe and Microsoft. The agency offers over 60% renewable energy at competitive rates and is driving toward a carbon-neutral San José by 2030. A key focus is reducing transportation emissions—San José is encouraging EV adoption with new incentives, including launching a new $5,000 point-of-sale rebate for low-income customers in Fall of 2025. 

EVs, AI, and the Grid of the Future

The growth of electric vehicles and data centers poses both a challenge and an opportunity. San José expects its energy demand to triple in the next decade, largely due to AI-driven data center expansion. Lori emphasizes the importance of managing this growth through demand flexibility—encouraging customers to shift energy use to cheaper, solar-rich midday hours or to stagger EV charging overnight. Nick adds that by spreading out demand, cities can avoid costly infrastructure buildouts while keeping rates affordable. 

Trust, Engagement, and Scaling Up

Both Nick and Lori agree that building trust is key. Customers need confidence that shifting their energy use will benefit them. In return, utilities and partners must deliver a smooth, transparent experience. Lori highlights the need for bundled solutions—like apps that show solar generation, EV charging, and cost savings all in one place—to boost adoption and affordability.