EV Power Pulse Issue #14

Current EVents

EV Industry Updates

itselectric’s Unique Urban EV Charging Solution

itselectric, founded by environmentalists Tiya Gordon and Nathan King, has created a novel solution to the scarcity of public charging stations in urban areas. As New Yorkers, Tiya and Nathan’s transit routine revolved around public transportation and bicycles. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, they contemplated purchasing a car. To their surprise, locating a convenient EV charging station in Brooklyn proved to be just as challenging as securing parking near Madison Square Garden. 

Recognizing the most significant obstacle to widespread EV adoption in the U.S. is the inadequate availability and reliability of public charging stations, Tiya and Nathan set out to address this problem in the nation’s most densely populated areas. In contrast to conventional approaches that involve intricate permitting and connections to local utilities, Tiya and Nathan discovered a more straightforward and effective solution. 

By utilizing the pre-existing electrical infrastructure of city buildings, which are already equipped with proper metering, itselectric partners with building owners to deploy charging stations. What makes this model particularly remarkable is its simplicity: it only requires two days to convert a city building into a functional charging station. This not only accelerates the installation process but also introduces a unique revenue-sharing mechanism. 

Through a revenue-sharing agreement with building owners hosting the charging stations, itselectric aligns the interests of both parties, resulting in a mutually advantageous situation. Building owners benefit financially from their participation, while itselectric gains access to a network of strategically located charging points. This approach not only accelerates the expansion of EV charging infrastructure in urban areas but also fosters a collaborative ecosystem where sustainability is incentivized. 

itselectric’s influence is rapidly gaining momentum. The startup recently secured a $1.5M federal grant from the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, and in March, they raised $2.2M in pre-seed funding. Their innovative model has the potential to be a transformative force in the urban EV charging ecosystem.

–Steve

Automotive Charging Solutions (ACS) is a strategic, value-added partner that can manage every aspect of the EV charging installation and maintenance process to ensure it becomes a successful and profitable part of your business.

Power and Policy

Biden vetoes law blocking EV charging stations' 'Buy America' waiver

President Joe Biden recently vetoed Republican-led legislation aimed to reverse his administration's waiver of "Buy America" regulations for government-funded EV charging stations. The legislation would have blocked the Federal Highway Administration's waiver of U.S. content mandates for crucial EV charger components such as steel, iron, and construction materials.

Critics of the Administration's policy argue that this may result in U.S. taxpayers indirectly subsidizing Chinese-manufactured products, emphasizing concerns surrounding potential economic repercussions. The White House, in response, defended its stance, asserting that the proposed legislation, if passed, would effectively eliminate the domestic manufacturing requirement for government-funded EV chargers, posing a significant threat to the nation’s manufacturing capabilities.

President Biden expressed his concerns, emphasizing that the resolution would undermine his Administration's efforts to encourage investment in critical industries and bring high-quality jobs back to the United States. 

This legislative stand-off comes at a critical time when the global demand for EV chargers is rapidly increasing, intensifying pressure on the supply chain. As we’ve discussed in a previous issue, the growth of America’s EV charging network has not kept pace with expectations, with supply chain bottlenecks playing a significant role. 

The Biden Administration believes that short-term waivers are necessary to accelerate the deployment of EV charging infrastructure. According to the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, federal infrastructure projects, including EV charging stations, are required to source at least 55% of their construction materials, including iron and steel, from domestic sources. This requirement is set to take effect in July.

While Republicans may attempt to reverse this veto in the Senate, they’re unlikely to muster sufficient votes. Coupled with the recent surge in federal investments in EV charging projects, the Biden Administration is optimistic the “Buy America” waiver will pave the way for a more rapid expansion of the EV charging network in 2024.

–Rob 

EV Workforce Insights

Goodwill driving EV-related job training in Georgia

Goodwill, in collaboration with Accenture and other partners, is dedicated to strengthening the EV sector workforce in Georgia. Through their Clean Tech Infrastructure Academy, they have introduced a comprehensive four-week curriculum designed to empower individuals with the skills necessary to excel in Georgia's rapidly growing EV industry.

The initiative represents a significant milestone in overcoming employment barriers in the state of Georgia. Keith Parker, President and CEO of Goodwill of North Georgia, emphasized the program's commitment to employing individuals leaving the criminal justice system, those facing health challenges, and retired military personnel. Participants not only receive competitive compensation throughout the four-week program but also gain valuable experience that can serve as a foundation for an enduring career.

The curriculum offered by the Clean Tech Infrastructure Academy is both comprehensive and forward-looking, encompassing the installation and maintenance of EV charging stations, solar panels, and heat pumps. This forward-thinking approach not only equips technicians with practical skills but also fosters adaptability to navigate the rapidly evolving EV technology landscape.

The program's inclusivity extends to individuals without a college degree, providing them with opportunities to enter a rapidly expanding industry from the ground up. Aspiring technicians will delve into important subjects such as electrical energy fundamentals, electrical safety and codes, and the commissioning and preventative maintenance of charging stations. 

Prominent industry players like Kia, Hyundai, Rivian, and various battery companies have played a significant role in the growth of Georgia’s EV sector. This initiative aims to address some of the maintenance and reliability challenges facing EV charging infrastructure in the U.S.

Looking ahead, the Clean Tech Infrastructure Academy has plans for expansion beyond Georgia, with future locations earmarked in Nashville, Houston, and Detroit. The program's vision aligns with the overarching goal of enhancing accessibility, promoting equity, and disseminating knowledge within the EV workforce.

Programs like this are emerging nationwide at a critical moment, coinciding with the increasing investments in both public and private EV infrastructure. The participants in this program are poised to play a vital role in ensuring these investments lead to a more reliable and robust U.S. charging network. 

–Steve and Rob

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Until next time, stay charged!
- Steve and Rob