EPRI launches several initiatives to advance EV infrastructure

The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) is working to advance the research, development, and deployment of electric transportation technologies in line with President Joe Biden’s plans to reduce carbon emissions by around 50 percent by 2030.

The White House recently announced that the Department of Energy (DOE) will develop a national EV charging infrastructure blueprint with EPRI. The blueprint will assess the needs to support electrification — including connectivity, communication, and protocols — from utility down to vehicle.

Also, EPRI is helping to inform consumers through a new Electric Vehicle Consumer Guide. The guide is designed to help consumers select and compare EVs. This free guide allows consumers to search for battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles by make, model, electric range, and price. It also includes useful information on EVs, like advice on where to charge and how long charging may take.

In addition, EPRI is convening industry stakeholders for an upcoming electrification forum centered on e-mobility. The Electrification 2021 Virtual Forum: Frontiers of e-Mobility will take place on June 7-10. It offers expert fireside chats, breakout sessions, and discussion rooms on the topics of accelerating established options, advancing new technology, and ensuring seamless infrastructure and affordable mobility.

“Electric transportation is central to the carbon reduction discussion,” EPRI President and CEO Arshad Mansoor said. “We’re honored to work with the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a national EV charging infrastructure blueprint examining key technical needs. EPRI’s collaboration with DOE and others helps overcome barriers to electric transportation adoption and unlock greater value for society.”

In addition, EPRI’s Fleet Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Initiative aims to develop the tools and resources needed for the rapid expansion of fleet charging infrastructure. The initiative focuses on three key areas: utility planning tools, interoperability, and resiliency.