The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center’s (NCCETC) Clean Transportation team is committed to developing materials that increase public awareness of the development and use of alternative fuels and advanced transportation technologies. Prior to transitioning to roles at NC State University’s Institute for Transportation Research and Education, former NCCETC Clean Transportation Senior Project Manager Alexander Yoshizumi and intern Hemil Mehta created educational infographics and an interactive map about the various electric vehicle (EV) charging stations that are available in North Carolina.
The infographics include a short history of the different charging systems, power ratings, plug-in locations within 50 miles of North Carolina, the top three counties by charger count, and the average new plugs per year over the past five years. Charts are used to indicate the plug’s power distribution as well as the plug density.
See the infographics that detail the Combined Charging System (CSS), CHArge de MOve (CHAdeMO), and North American Charging Standard (NACS) below:
This infographic communicates that CCS is typically used by car manufacturers in Europe and North America. The chargers were first installed in North Carolina in 2015, and as of 2024 they make up 29% of all fast-charging plugs across the state, with a median power rating of 150kW. There are 599 CCS plugs within 50 miles of NC, with the most plugs located in Mecklenburg county. Over the past five years, the average number of new plugs per year is 105.3. A visualization of the location of plugs within 50 miles of the state is included, along with charts that indicate the power distribution and plug density of CSS stations.
Used primarily by Japanese automakers, the first CHAdeMO plug in NC was installed in 2014. As of 2024, CHAdeMO chargers make up 12% of all fast-charging plugs across the state with a median power rating of 62.5kW. There are 253 plugs located within 50 miles of NC, with the largest number located in Wake county. Over the past five years, there has been an average of 44 new plugs installed each year. A visualization of the location of plugs within 50 miles of the state is included, along with charts that indicate the power distribution and plug density of CHAdeMO stations.
NACS charging stations were first introduced by Tesla, and the first plugs in NC were installed in 2013. NACS plugs are more common than CSS and CHAdeMO stations within the state and make up 59% of all fast-charging plugs across North Carolina, with 1,229 plugs located within 50 miles of the state. The plugs have a median power rating of 250kW and an average of 196.2 plugs have been installed per year, over the last five years. A visualization of the location of plugs within 50 miles of the state is included, along with charts that indicate the power distribution and plug density of NACS stations.
Yoshizumi noted that there are many chargers with very high-power ratings within the state, which puts North Carolina in a great position to advance EV use.
In addition to the infographics, Mehta compiled data about public charging infrastructure in North Carolina and created a visualization that can be used to find the location of charging stations and the average power of the stations measured in kilowatts.
These resources can be instrumental to those who own EVs or are looking to transition to zero tailpipe-emission vehicles. Quickly finding a compatible charging station is essential when driving long distances in an EV. Yoshizumi says, “This is directly supporting transportation resilience work within the state of North Carolina and helps to ensure that EVs are prepared for evacuation as severe weather is projected to increase in the future.”
Both the data included in the infographics and in the interactive map are current as of 2024. The infographics can also be found on the publications page of NCCETC’s website.
Between the months of September and October lies National Drive Electric Week (NDEW), a week that is dedicated to further educating the public about the possibilities that electric vehicles (EVs) have to offer. This year, NDEW took place September 27 to October 6, 2024, and boasted over 200 events across the United States that brought together EV owners, enthusiasts, fleet managers, and transportation professionals. The Clean Transportation team at the North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center (NCCETC), held three events to recognize NDEW that took place at North Carolina State University (NCSU) and Wake Forest University (WFU).
On October 3, 2024, the team arranged to bring 25 electric or hybrid vehicles to NCSU’s Centennial Campus.
The afternoon was filled with conversations between EV owners and students eager to learn more.
This event was a “ride and drive”, allowing the public to drive a vehicle of their choice along a designated route. Many students took advantage of this opportunity and enjoyed the chance to experience EV driving in person.
The team held the next NDEW event two days later on October 5, 2024, during the NCSU football game tailgate. Another slew of vehicle owners and dealerships brought their EVs, with models including an Acura ZDX, Rivian R1T, Tesla Roadster, Chevrolet Blazer, BMW X5i PHEV, Ford Mach-E, and Hyundai IONIQ 5.
This event was an EV showcase rather than ride and drive, which allowed around 100 individuals to stop by and learn about the various vehicles present.
Among individual owners, several dealerships including Hendrick Automotive, Westgate, Sir Walter Chevrolet, MLS Electric, and Johnson Hyundai contributed to bringing EV or hybrid vehicles.
For the final event, the team traveled to Winston-Salem to hold another EV display at the WFU football game tailgate.
Passersby enjoyed connecting with NCCETC’s Clean Transportation team along with EV owners who were excited to share their knowledge.
The Clean Transportation team looks forward to hosting NDEW each year, with the goal of bringing the most innovative vehicles to share with the public. NCCETC would like to thank all of the supporting organizations, dealerships, and individual owners who contributed to the success of the 2024 NDEW events!
This year, National Drive Electric Week (NDEW) will be celebrated September 27 through October 6, 2024. The annual celebration stretches across the United States to raise awareness about the benefits that electric vehicles (EVs) have to offer.
Nearly 200 NDEW events will be held throughout the week that will showcase the various all-electric and plug-in hybrid cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more. Attendees will have the chance to connect with EV owners and enthusiasts to experience electric driving in-person.
North Carolina is home to 10 upcoming NDEW showcases, two of which the NC Clean Energy Technology Center (NCCETC) will be hosting in Raleigh. The Center will be hosting an additional showcase outside of the week, on October 12, 2024, at Wake Forest University.
Attend one or more of the state-wide events below!
September 28, 2024 | Chapel Hill Public Library, Chapel Hill, NC
At this showcase, attendees will have the opportunity to look inside the Town of Chapel Hill’s EVs and speak with local EV owners. Learn more and RSVP here.
September 28, 2024 | Wake Tech Hendrick Center, Raleigh, NC
“Drive Electric at Wake Tech” will be held at the Hendrick Center for Automotive Excellence at Wake Technical Community College. Owners of the following vehicles have registered to attend: Tesla Model Y, E-Scooter, Fisker Ocean, Ford F-150 Lightning, Tesla Model 3, BMW i5, Chevrolet Bolt, E-Bike, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and many more! The Hendrick Center will also conduct scheduled building tours throughout the week that features their Hybrid & EV Program. Learn more and RSVP here.
October 1, 2024 | Carrboro Plaza, Carrboro, NC
Piedmont Electric’s “Electrify Your Ride” event invites the community to Carrboro Plaza to experience the future of sustainable transportation firsthand. All are welcome to learn about EVs and engage with local EV owners. Learn more and RSVP here.
October 3, 2024 | Centennial Campus, Raleigh, NC
NCCETC is hosting an EV showcase and test drive at Venture Plaza at The Corner on NC State University’s Centennial Campus. Attendees can learn about and experience electric vehicles including Ford Mustang Mach-Es, a Fisker Ocean, and various Tesla models. Learn more here and register on this page.
Previous EV showcase on Centennial Campus
October 5, 2024 | FTCC Tony Rand Student Center, Fayetteville, NC
Sustainable Sandhills is hosting an EV Car Show at Fayetteville Technical Community College from 4:00pm-8:00pm on October 5. Expected display vehicles include a Tesla Cybertruck, Audi Q4 e-tron quattro, BMW 740e, Cadillac LYRIQ, Nissan Ariya, Solectria Force, and more! Food trucks will also be on site. Learn more and RSVP here.
October 5, 2024 | NC State University Tailgate, Raleigh, NC
NCCETC will hold a tailgate and plug-in EV car show at the NC State University vs Wake Forest University football game. Due to game-day congestion and traffic, it is recommended that only those with tickets for the game or parking arrangements attend. Owners of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, Rivian R1T, and Tesla Model S have registered to attend. Learn more here and register on this page.
October 5, 2024 | Board of Elections, Hillsborough, NC
EV owners will showcase their vehicles and share experiences and knowledge at this event held near the Eno River Farmers Market. Those who are interested in seeing the inside of EVs and learning more about EV ownership are encouraged to attend! Learn more and RSVP here.
October 5, 2024 | Saint Matthews UMC, Greensboro, NC
An EV showcase will take place at the fourth annual Saint Matthews UMC Fall Festival in Greensboro, NC. The event will spread awareness of environmental stewardship and environmental advocacy. Learn more and RSVP here.
October 6, 2024 | Asheville Tanger Outlets, Asheville, NC
The Blue Ridge EV Club has partnered with Sugar Hollow Solar, Asheville Hunter Volvo, and the Tanger Asheville Outlets to host their eleventh annual National Drive Electric event. A wide variety of EVs will be present, including Chevrolet Bolts, Tesla Cybertrucks, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Nissan Leafs, and more! Learn more and RSVP here.
October 12, 2024 | Tailgate & Car Show, Winston-Salem, NC
This event hosted by NCCETC will highlight electric transportation at Wake Forest University (WFU) with a tailgate and plug-in electric vehicle car show at the WFU vs Clemson football game. Due to game-day congestion and traffic, it is recommended that only those with tickets for the game or parking arrangements attend. Learn more here and register on this page.
National Drive Electric Week is a chance for individuals not only in North Carolina, but across the country to learn about the benefits of EVs and engage with vehicle owners who are eager to share their knowledge. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend your local EV showcase to see the future of clean transportation first-hand!
Over 300 individuals attended the 2024 Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference & Expo at the Durham Convention Center in Durham, NC that spanned over three days, providing attendees with various networking opportunities, informational breakout sessions, and opportunities to hear from experts in the clean transportation industry.
NCCETC’s Clean Transportation team organized the conference and worked diligently to bring fleet managers, purchasing officials, state and local government leaders, Clean Cities Coalitions, non-profits, and alternative fuel organizations together to create an unforgettable opportunity for all attendees and exhibitors to connect with each other on the basis of creating a clean vehicle economy.
During the pre-conference day on August 13, 2024, the NAFA Fleet Management Association announced the 2024 Green Fleet Award winners.
Pictured above: Port Authority of NY & NJ receive an award for ranking second in the list of top Green Fleets of 2024.
Pictured Above: Miami-Dade County, FL ISD Fleet Management receive an award for “Best Policies, Procedures, and Long Term Planning” as well as a recognition for ranking third in a list of the top Green Fleets of 2024.
Pictured Above: Cedric Roberts, CAFM – Birmingham, AL receives an award for “Best Long Term Greening Effort”
Pictured Above: NCCETC Executive Director Steve Kalland speaks with pre-conference attendees at the Green Fleet Awards Reception.
The main conference events began on August 14, 2024, featuring two keynote addresses from Bill Combs, Vice President of Sustainability at Penske Transportation Solutions, and George Fotopoulos, Vice President of the e-mobility Business Unit at Mack Trucks.
Pictured Above: Bill Combs, Penske Transportation Solutions
Pictured Above: George Fotopoulos, Mack Trucks
Pictured Above: Conference attendee Stan Cross participates in the Q&A session with the keynote speakers.
After attending the keynote speeches, the exhibit hall opened featuring an array of sponsors and exhibitors.
Pictured Above: Exhibitors engage with attendees in the Expo Hall.
Both days of the conference offered informational breakout sessions in one of three tracks: Funding & Planning, Advanced Vehicle Technologies, and Fueling & Charging. (Pictured Below)
Outside, clean vehicles lined the street to allow individuals to check out the latest and greatest clean fueling technologies.
Pictured Above: City of Durham fire engine display featuring idle reduction technology
Pictured Above: City of Raleigh electric vehicle display
The final day of the conference began with a plenary panel: Best Practices from Top Fleet Managers, with panelists Guadalupe Federico, Al Curtis, Chris Davis, moderated by LP Monroe. (Pictured Below)
Attendees then had another opportunity to network with exhibitors in the expo hall, before attending the closing plenary panel: What Does the Future Hold? Panelists Jennifer Weaver from the Clean Fuels Alliance America, Marianne McInerney from Mullen Automotive, Jed Routh from Kempower, and Tyler Rhew from Alliance Autogas were moderated by Rick Sapienza. (Pictured Below)
The conference ended with the final two breakout sessions, making for a successful and fulfilling three days of networking with clean transportation experts, and learning from professionals in the field.
We would like to thank our sponsors for all of their support throughout the planning and execution of the conference:
Platinum Sponsors
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Southeast Propane Alliance (SEPA)
Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)
Silver Sponsors
Diesel Laptops
Kempower
NAFA Fleet Management Association
Central Pines Regional Council
Black Fleet Network
InCharge
Mullen Automotive
Bronze Sponsors
Alliance AutoGas
U.S. Soy & Clean Fuels Alliance America
Samsara
Model 1 Commercial Vehicles
Thompson AutoGas
Stealth Power
NCCETC hopes to see everyone for the 2025 Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference & Expo on August 25-27, 2025, at the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem, NC!
Government and commercial fleets are at the forefront of the evolving landscape of fleet technology and sustainability, and public and private fleet managers, OEMs, sustainability managers, and transportation industry professionals will be at the 2024 Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference, taking place from August 13-15 in Durham, NC. The SFT Conference is the best opportunity in the Southeast to hear directly from fleet administrators about how they are implementing cutting-edge sustainable solutions for fleet management. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of fleet management, including technology, financial planning, fiscal responsibility and sustainability solutions.
“The conference has provided me with information, insights, knowledge, and relationships that have helped me advance my career while growing personally and professionally, empowering me to make significant contributions to Charlotte’s Sustainable Energy Plan while providing a firm foundation for pursuing alt-fuels and fleet electrification efforts. Year after year, this conference has given me actionable insights that have influenced my approach to sustainability, enabling me to turn ideas into real-world applications that benefit my entire community.”
Chris Davis, City of Charlotte Department of Transportation, NC Fleet Manager
Pre-conference events start August 13, with the NAFA Sustainable Fleet Management Training, a comprehensive boot camp certificate program designed to equip fleet professionals with the latest sustainable practices and strategies. Other activities include the free Clean Transportation Landscape in the Southeast session hosted by Triangle Clean Cities, and the NAFA Green Fleet events including the announcement and presentation of the National Green Fleet Awards.
The SFT Conference kicks off with Penske’s VP of Sustainability and Mack Trucks eMobility VP, who will highlight the state of the clean transportation industry. August 14th and 15th, explore the SFT Expo Hall with more than 40 exhibitors including EV charging manufacturers, sustainable fuel providers, clean fleet vehicles, fuel infrastructure companies, telematics technology providers, and education and training institutions.
During the conference attend insightful sessions across three main tracks: Funding & Planning, Advanced Vehicle Technologies, and Fueling & Charging. Gain practical knowledge through workshops, case studies, and interactive sessions. Panelists include fleet administrators, federal and state funding agencies, fleet technology developers, and alternative fuel providers. (See the full agenda online.)
Thursday’s mainstage will include a morning plenary, Best Practices from Fleet Managers, with speakers from the Pacific Northwest, Southeast, and Southwest regions of the United States. Over lunch we’ll consider What will the future hold? with representatives across various fuel and charging options.
Networking opportunities will be abundant in the Expo Hall Reception and at the Durham Bulls Baseball Event, allowing attendees to connect with peers, industry experts, and solution providers.
The SFT Conference & Expo is an affordable conference that allows professionals to delve into real-world applications and future trends in fleet sustainability. Register now and join us in Durham, NC, from August 13-15, 2024, for an event that promises to inspire, educate, and connect. For more information and to register, visit www.sustainablefleetexpo.com.
On June 20, 2024, NCCETC staff held a Requirements for Federal Funding for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure webinar to give a breakdown of the necessary components when it comes to applying for one of the many EV funding programs in the United States. To watch the recording, visit NCCETC’s YouTube Channel. This webinar is part of the Sustainable Fleet Technology Webinar Series in which industry professionals analyze challenges, demonstrate areas of potential operational improvement, and share innovative strategies and technologies that fleets are implementing across the country. Registration is free for all SFT webinars, so be sure to sign up for upcoming webinars being offered September 18, October 2, October 23, November 20, and December 4.
Clean energy policy experts Anne Blair (Electrification Coalition), Dr. Thomas Stout (HDR), and Eleni Petrow (TRC) each tackled an area of federal funding programs, beginning with an overview of Build America, Buy America (BABA). Anne Blair is the Vice President of Policy at the Electrification Coalition, a non-profit that works to reduce the United States’ oil dependence and reimagine the transportation sector to support economic development.
Dr. Thomas Stout works as an Inductive Pavement Lead at HDR, and shared NEVI guidance and requirements with the attendees. The Corridor aspect of the program has spacing requirements of less than 50 miles between stations. The stations also must be within one mile of an Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC). All AFCs must be constructed first before stations and other infrastructure can be placed. Dr. Stout notes that an important aspect of spacing requirements within the program is that the distance is measured in driving miles.
Before diving into the rule requirements of the NEVI program, Dr. Stout defined key terms used throughout the guidance. A station refers to the area where EV chargers are located; a charger is the equipment that converts power from the grid (AC) to the battery (DC). Connectors are the physical connections to the car and there are multiple types including Combined Charging System (CCS), North American Charging Standard (NACS), and CHAdeMO. A port is a single output from the charger that can charge one vehicle at a time. Dr. Stout explained that this is a logical construct as ports are physically made up of chargers and connectors. He says, “if one vehicle can be charged, that is one port; if two can be charged at a time, then that same hardware counts as two ports.” The requirements for NEVI are written around ports rather than chargers, connectors, or stations.
The NEVI rule requires a minimum of four ports with a CCS Type 1 connector on each port. Power sharing among ports is allowed, but the power cannot be reduced below 150kW per port. There is also an output requirement of between 250 and 920 V DC. Charging stations must also support contactless credit and debit payment methods as well as an automated toll-free phone or SMS payment option. The charging stations need to be maintained and operational for at least 5 years, and there are standards specified for interoperability such as charger-to-EV, charger-to-network, or network-to-network.
There are also requirements for qualified technicians under the NEVI program. Those installing, maintaining, or operating chargers must have appropriate licenses, certifications, and training. Electricians are required to be either Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) certified, or a graduate of a DOT and Department of Labor (DOL) approved electrical apprenticeship program. If there is a need for more than one electrician, at least one will need to be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program.
There are ADA and multilingual requirements as well, that state multilingual users and those with limited English proficiency must be accommodated. Charging stations need to be accessible for individuals with disabilities and need to comply with ADA standards.
Dr. Stout ended the run-through of NEVI requirements with guidelines for data availability, and stated price has to be communicated in $/kWh, real-time data must be provided to third parties through a free Application Programming Interface (API), and all ports need to maintain 97% up-time.
Eleni Petrow, Senior Director at TRC’s Clean Transportation Solutions team, shared an in-depth review of Federal Reporting Requirements. The three main reporting requirements include progress reports, site visits/technical assistance, and audits which are required for grantees expending more than $750,000 in federal dollars in one fiscal year. Petrow also lists the standard federal reporting forms as follows:
SF-271 Outlay report and request for reimbursement for construction programs
SF-428 Tangible personal property
SF-429 Real property status report
SF-LLL Disclosure of lobbying activities – as revised in 1996
SF-SAC Data collection form for single audits
DOT and FHWA require data reporting that is quarterly for charging stations and ports, annual for maintenance and repair cost per station, and on-time for entities involved in operations and maintenance.
There is also a public accessibility component for certain projects. AFC projects must be publicly accessible at all times and community projects need to be accessible during regular business hours. Petrow says the accessibility of shared fleet projects is currently under discussion which could be an opportunity for individuals to engage with their local DOT to advocate for shared fleet projects.
Petrow also discussed the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), which is managed by the Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) and the Regional Transportation Planning Agencies (RTPAs). All FHWA projects must be included in an approved FTIP. She stated to “look at these agencies as your partners, work closely with them, and ask for guidance”.
A great resource to find more detailed information about incentives and state requirements is the Alternative Fuels Data Center.
Make sure to sign up for the remaining SFT Webinars this year to learn more about the latest and greatest clean transportation programs and technologies!
The EPA’s Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program is funded by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) investment of $1 billion to be used toward replacing existing emitting heavy-duty vehicles with zero emission vehicles, supporting infrastructure for these vehicles, and workforce development.
The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) has been announced and offers up to $932 million in funding under the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program. The deadline to apply is July 25, 2024, and the EPA plans to notify those selected by November 2024, and award grants by February of the following year. Those who are eligible to apply include States, United States territories, municipalities, public school districts, Indian Tribes, and non-profit school transportation associations. The vehicles eligible under the program are Class 6 and Class 7 school buses, along with other Class 6 and 7 vehicles like dump trucks, transit buses, delivery trucks, utility trucks, and other box trucks.
Visit the EPA’s website for more information on the program and what components are eligible for funding. John Bonitz, NCCETC Clean Transportation Specialist, says “In the case of old diesel school buses, each one we replace with an electric school bus will immediately give those students cleaner air, fewer asthma attacks, better attendance, and increased ridership. That’s a great payback!”
On the EV charging side of clean transportation, the CFI Grant Program offers up to $1.3 billion in funding and has two tracks aimed to make EV charging more accessible. The Community Charging and Alternative Fueling Grants (Community Program) focus on the installation of EV charging and alternative fuel in public schools, parks, roads, and accessible parking facilities. Rural areas and low- or moderate-income neighborhoods will be prioritized in the Community Program grants. The Charging and Alternative Fuel Corridor Grants (Corridor Program) work to install EV charging as well as hydrogen/propane/natural gas fueling infrastructure in designated alternative fuel corridors.
Applications are open for the CFI Grant Program until August 28, 2024. State Governments, Local Governments, Federally Recognized Tribes, planning organizations, transportation providers, and United States territories are eligible to apply. The funding can be used for planning, equipment, technology demonstrations, sustainability, and accessibility. To learn more about the CFI Grant Program visit the DOT website or the Federal Highway Administration website.
The NEVI Program offers up to $5 billion to be distributed over 5 years between 2022 and 2026 for EV charging infrastructure deployment and to establish a network to oversee data, access, and reliability. States, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico are eligible to apply for activities such as public transportation charging, infrastructure planning, and workforce development. States will be required to submit annual plans on their use of grant funds for EV infrastructure. View this fact sheet for more information about the program.
NCCETC Clean Transportation Program Director, Heather Brutz, says “The NEVI and CFI grants will go a long way towards helping to close the infrastructure gaps for EV charging in North Carolina and the United States.” Look into applying for one of these funding opportunities today to play a part in the initiative to decrease vehicle emissions across the country.
“I’m thrilled to join the TRB’s Maintenance Fleet and Equipment Committee,” shared Brutz. “This opportunity aligns perfectly with NCCETC’s mission to advance clean transportation solutions.”
The TRB’s Standing Committee on Maintenance Fleet and Equipment focuses on the selection, repair, replacement and management of maintenance equipment, as well as the development of skilled craftspeople to support these efforts.
TRB, one of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s seven program units, is dedicated to fostering innovation and advancement in transportation through rigorous research. Within an unbiased and interdisciplinary framework, TRB facilitates the exchange of knowledge and insights on transportation policies and practices among researchers and practitioners.
Moreover, TRB plays a crucial role in disseminating research findings widely and advocating for their practical implementation. It promotes research initiatives and provides management services to ensure technical excellence, offering expert guidance on transportation policies and programs.
Each year, TRB’s diverse activities engage over 5,000 professionals, including engineers, scientists, and transportation experts from various sectors and academia. The TRB Annual Meeting is one of the world’s largest transportation gatherings, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and administrators for hundreds of sessions and workshops related to a wide range of topics and transportation modes.
Brutz joined the TRB’s 2024 Annual Meeting in January, lending her expertise as a moderator for the panel “Transition of Construction and Off-Road Vehicles to Alternative Fuels”. “Dr. Leila Hajibabai from NC State University invited me to coordinate this session based on my experience in planning the annual Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference,” Brutz said. “It was gratifying to be able to support discussions that drive forward sustainable solutions in transportation.”
The 104th annual meeting will be held in Washington, DC on January 5-9, 2025. More information can be found online here and the full 2025 program will be posted there in November.
At the annual meeting, Brutz connected with the standing committee’s Chair, Henry Canipe, who encouraged her to submit her name for consideration to join as a member. Brutz’s appointment is a three year commitment, spanning until 2027.
As a member of the standing committee on Maintenance Fleet and Equipment, Brutz will help organize educational events, make recommendations on research topics and actively participate in and support the committee’s activities.
“I’m really looking forward to learning from the other members of the committee and, at the same time, leverage the experience I have to support the committee’s efforts, so I think this will be a mutually beneficial relationship,” Brutz said.
With her wealth of expertise and dedication to the cause, Brutz is poised to make valuable contributions to the committee’s initiatives as she embarks on this three-year appointment.
The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center (NCCETC) welcomed more than 150 attendees to two Clean Transportation Demonstration Days, held on March 18 and 19, 2024 in Raleigh and Winston-Salem, NC. These events, offered free of charge, provided invaluable platforms for government entities to explore clean transportation technologies and alternative fuel vehicles.
The vision behind these Demonstration Days stemmed from NCCETC’s commitment to fostering the adoption of alternative fuels and advanced transportation technologies. “Demonstration Days are an important part of our outreach and education efforts because they equip government entities across North Carolina with the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to embrace clean transportation solutions,” said Heather Brutz, Director of NCCETC’s Clean Transportation program.
Comprising a blend of informative classroom instruction, interactive exhibits and thrilling test drive opportunities, the agenda was crafted to provide a descriptive overview of clean transportation technologies.
The highlight of the events was undoubtedly the hands-on exploration of an impressive array of vehicles and alternative fuel technologies on display. From sleek electric vehicles (EVs) to robust buses, utility vehicles and charging equipment, participants were immersed in a showcase of cutting-edge innovation.
Notably, certain electric and alternative fuel vehicles were available for test drives, allowing attendees to experience the dynamic capabilities of clean transportation firsthand. A few brave individuals even tested out a truck equipped with Viatec’s SmartPTO bucket lift solution which powers an aerial lift with electric power, sparing harmful emissions from an idling engine.
These events underscored North Carolina’s pivotal role in spearheading a monumental shift toward cleaner energy technologies. Bolstered by initiatives such as Executive Orders 80 and 246, which prioritize carbon emissions reduction and aim for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, the state is embracing a sustainable trajectory toward the future.
Among the noteworthy exhibits were Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, the GreenPower Motor Company EVStar Passenger Van, Ryvid Anthem Electric Police Motorcycles, Ford F-150 Lightning, Freightliner Trucks’s eCascadia from the City of Charlotte, Electric Motorcycles from the City of Raleigh, a Ford F-150 with a bi-fuel propane autogas system from Alliance AutoGas, a Chevy Silverado demo vehicle with Stealth Power’s idle mitigation system and a Tesla Model PD.
Heavy-duty vehicles on display included Battle Motors LNT eV Curbtender Rear Loader, Bluebird Electric School Bus, Bluebird Propane School Bus, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Waste Collection Vehicle from GFL Environmental, GoRaleigh’s CNG Transit Bus, and a battery auxiliary power unit fire truck from the City of Durham.
Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to explore innovative equipment such as Blink Charging’s EV Charging Station and Atom Power’s EV charging solution, further emphasizing the breadth of clean energy solutions available.
As the curtain closed on these successful Clean Transportation Demonstration Days, the NCCETC remains committed to driving forward the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future. By empowering government entities and stakeholders with the tools and knowledge needed to embrace clean transportation technologies, North Carolina continues to lead the charge toward a greener tomorrow.
Explore more pictures from the 2024 Clean Transportation Demonstration Days by visiting this Google Photos album.
The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center (NCCETC) is excited to unveil the new Piedmont and Coastal North Carolina Clean Communities coalition. Spanning across 57 counties, this coalition aims to bolster economic vitality, energy resilience, and overall quality of life throughout the state by championing accessible, effective, and eco-friendly transportation fuels and technology.
As part of the national Clean Cities and Communities network, a partnership under the US Department of Energy, Piedmont and Coastal North Carolina Clean Communities joins over 75 designated coalitions operating locally in urban, suburban and rural areas nationwide. This strategic alliance underscores the shared mission to fortify the nation’s environment, energy security, and economic prosperity through innovative clean transportation solutions.
Expanding the reach of Clean Cities coalitions in North Carolina holds promise for reducing the state’s reliance on foreign oil, curbing transportation-related emissions, and advancing public health. Moreover, this initiative aligns with the coalitions’ renewed commitment to statewide inclusivity, ensuring that all communities—regardless of size or location—receive support. This mirrors the federal government’s Justice40 Initiative, which seeks to direct a minimum of 40 percent of certain federal investments towards disadvantaged communities.
The new coalition builds on clean transportation efforts already happening across the state. NCCETC’s Clean Transportation program has championed clean energy initiatives in North Carolina for more than 35 years as a leading source of technical assistance and education on clean transportation technologies across the Southeast.
Over the years, NCCETC has held many Ride & Drive and Vehicle Displays for diverse audiences in North Carolina. These events offer attendees the chance to explore clean transportation technologies, such as electric vehicles (EVs) and other alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs). Dealers and local EV drivers are present onsite to provide insights and answer questions, offering firsthand experiences with clean transportation technologies.
NCCETC has hosted several EV tailgates at Wake Forest University prior to football games to give fans a chance to see electric cars on display. Last year, NCCETC hosted a Clean Transportation Demonstration Day in Jacksonville, NC to give government entities the opportunity to access information about and experience with clean transportation technologies and AFVs.
The day after, on Earth Day, NCCETC, along with the Piedmont Triad Regional Council (PTRC), the regional EV Association Chapter, TEVA of NC, and the Triangle Clean Cities Coalition, collaborated to host an electric vehicle showcase booth at the 18th Annual Piedmont Earth Day Fair. Visitors had the opportunity to explore and experience electric vehicles from the region firsthand, with EV owners available to provide insights and answer questions.
Near the end of 2023, NCCETC partnered with the Upper Coastal Plains Council of Governments to bolster EV infrastructure resilience in North Carolina’s Upper Coastal Plains region. This initiative included a tailored webinar series discussing EV infrastructure resilience in Eastern North Carolina, offering crucial insights and laying the groundwork for similar initiatives beyond the region.
NCCETC is supporting several events for Earth Month 2024 in Fayetteville, Greenville and Roanoke Rapids. EV owners interested in having their vehicle on display or available for ride & drives can register online via this form. For individuals interested in attending a Drive Electric Earth Month event, find an event near you and RSVP at driveelectricearthmonth.org.
“As clean energy infrastructure is concerned, this is a very exciting and important time for both North Carolina and our nation,” said Carter Spradling, Senior Regional Planner PTRC and Director of the Northwest Piedmont Rural Planning Organization.
PTRC, a longstanding education and outreach partner of NCCETC, is a member organization of the Piedmont and Coastal NC Clean Communities advisory committee along with East Carolina University, Fayetteville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, North Carolina Military Business Center, Pasquotank County Sheriff’s Office, Piedmont Truck Center, Roanoke Electric Membership Corporation, Town of Williamston, and the City of Wilmington.
Hank Graham, Executive Director of the Fayetteville Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, is proud to be the first Chair for the coalition. “Our current short and long term goals for the new coalitions is to promote clean transportation events and efforts in the Piedmont and Coastal regions of North Carolina,” Graham shared.
“The new Piedmont and Coastal North Carolina Clean Communities Coalition is in position to guide and establish the energy landscape, and positively impact the lives of millions of North Carolinians,” Spradling expressed. “Done properly, we can situate our state and our region for success for decades to come through implementing sustainable and resilient solutions that are also on the cutting edge of technology.”
To drive progress within the coalition’s objectives and enhance stakeholder engagement, Piedmont and Coastal NC Clean Communities has established three subcommittees or working groups:
Funding and Resource Opportunities: This subcommittee aims to disseminate key information and foster collaboration on funding opportunities pertaining to alternative fuels and vehicles, air quality, fuel efficiency, and other transportation-related projects.Through the power of partnership, stakeholders will be empowered to maximize their impact when implementing clean transportation initiatives by pooling resources and expertise to access competitive grants at the state, local and federal levels.
Fleet Services and Support: Assisting public and private fleets, this subcommittee coordinates educational events and offers recommendations to facilitate the adoption of alternative fuels and clean transportation technologies. By enhancing fleet sustainability statewide, this group plays a crucial role in advancing clean transportation initiatives.
Fueling and Charging Infrastructure Planning: Collaborating with planning organizations and state agencies, this subcommittee assesses needs and identifies opportunities for the development of electric vehicle charging stations and other fueling infrastructure.
Enacted through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI) allocates nearly $5 billion from July 2022 to June 2027 to assist states in establishing a network of 500,000 electric vehicle charging stations along designated alternative fuel corridors. North Carolina anticipates receiving up to $109 million to expand EV infrastructure along its approved corridors.
NCCETC is assisting the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) in the facilitation of networking opportunities for stakeholders interested in partnering on charging station development and infrastructure. Currently, NCDOT is developing a NEVI Networking Database for entities interested in deploying EV supply equipment (EVSE) under the NEVI program as part of deployment teams consisting of site developers, EVSE providers and site hosts. NCCETC has been promoting the networking database and encouraging local businesses to consider entering their information into the database in order to potentially connect with developers interested in building high-powered DC Fast Chargers under the funding. A DC Fast Charger located at a local business can bring travelers to the business to spend time there as they charge. NCCETC staff have reached out to local Chambers of Commerce across the 57 county region to provide them with information about the NEVI funding.
The GIS map from NCDOT delineates the suggested sites for 11 electric vehicle charging stations earmarked for Round 1 funding under the NEVI Program. NCDOT unveiled this GIS map prior to issuing the Request for Proposal (RFP) to aid in planning; NEVI program applicants are required to locate their proposed charging stations within these specified clusters. NCDOT intends to issue the RFP for NEVI Round 1 funding in the coming spring.
The Fermata FE-15 bidirectional charger at Roanoke Electric’s headquarters. Left to right, Dr Holmes Hummel (CleanEnergyWorks), Wallace Ridgeway (Fermata Energy), George Stamper (Roanoke VP of Engineering), Ricky Robinson (Roanoke Warehouse Coordinator), Anita Knight (Roanoke Manager of Engineering), and John Bonitz (NCCETC).
Roanoke Electric Cooperative (REC), a member of the coalition’s advisory committee, will play a pivotal role in facilitating educational opportunities for fleets and the general public in their service area. Marshall Cherry, President and CEO of REC, said, “Investing in collaboration with Clean Cities and Communities promises numerous benefits for our community, including access to networking opportunities, technical training, and information resources on alternative fuels and advanced vehicle technologies. Through such partnerships, we can effectively reduce fuel use and air pollution, fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future for Piedmont and Coastal NC.”
NCCETC and REC previously collaborated on a two-year demonstration of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, showcasing the economic benefits of bidirectional charging. REC’s headquarters in Ahoskie, NC, served as the test site for Fermata Energy’s bidirectional charger and two Nissan LEAF Plus cars. Through various use cases including peak load reduction, load following, and coincident peak demand reduction, REC demonstrated monthly savings exceeding EV lease costs. This innovative approach not only reduces REC’s electric bill but also supports the local grid and reduces pollution, benefiting both REC and its member-owners.
Alrik Lunsford, Clean Transportation Specialist for NCCETC, is serving as the Director of the Piedmont and Coastal NC Clean Communities coalition. “Through the Piedmont and Coastal NC Clean Communities coalition, we are not just shaping the future of transportation in North Carolina; we are forging a path towards a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous state for generations to come,” Lunsford remarked. “Together, we will drive innovation, promote sustainability, and leave a lasting legacy of positive impact on our communities and our environment.”
Public and private organizations which operate within the coalition territory can sign up to become stakeholders by completing this form.
If you are interested in learning more about the Piedmont and Coastal North Carolina Clean Communities coalition, visit www.fuelwhatmatters.org.
Petrow also discussed the Federal Transportation Improvement Program (FTIP), which is managed by the Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) and the Regional Transportation Planning Agencies (RTPAs). All FHWA projects must be included in an approved FTIP. She stated to “look at these agencies as your partners, work closely with them, and ask for guidance”.
The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) has been announced and offers up to $932 million in funding under the Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Program. The deadline to apply is July 25, 2024, and the EPA plans to notify those selected by November 2024, and award grants by February of the following year. Those who are eligible to apply include States, United States territories, municipalities, public school districts, Indian Tribes, and non-profit school transportation associations. The vehicles eligible under the program are Class 6 and Class 7 school buses, along with other Class 6 and 7 vehicles like dump trucks, transit buses, delivery trucks, utility trucks, and other box trucks.
