An increasing number of EVs on the road could threaten the stability of electrical grids nationwide if not integrated in a way that encourages load balancing. This report from Rocky Mountain institute and the electric utility Seattle City Light (SCL) studies the potential impacts of increasing EVs in Seattle and offers insights for electric utilities to develop strategic transportation electrification plans that ensure grid reliability. The report argues that utilities should partner with city agencies to support “aggressive electrification commitments” and to ensure they keep up with technological changes. SCL is working directly with the City of Seattle through the EV Shared Mobility project to ensure that efforts towards transportation electrification are aligned. The report also says cities can encourage greater EV use by putting chargers at designated drop-off areas for ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft; having fast chargers at apartment buildings and in underserved communities; and having community car-sharing programs. Partnerships between utilities and city agencies can help accelerate such initiatives and ensure that the grid can cope.

Preview the report here:

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