Maximizing wind, solar, and other clean electricity resources starts with a modernized grid that leverages these resources and withstands the threats of a changing climate. And it means converting uses and sectors that currently depend on fossil fuels– like transportation–to clean electricity.
To unleash the full power of renewables, we need advanced distribution systems and battery storage, both built to withstand an increasingly volatile climate. And we need innovation to continue to drive down the cost of solar, smart-energy products, and utility-scale batteries.
For example, Environmental Defense Fund is working in the Caribbean with residents and local leaders to pilot solar-charged microgrids and energy storage solutions that bring resilient and reliable electricity to remote locations where residents are most vulnerable to climate-fueled storms.
Transportation accounts for a large and growing portion of climate emissions and local air pollution. It’s also one of the best candidates to transition to clean electricity.
As auto markets rapidly transition toward electric cars, the buses and trucks that move our economies are the next major opportunity to reduce these emissions.
To unleash the full power of renewables, we need advanced distribution systems and battery storage, both built to withstand an increasingly volatile climate. And we need innovation to continue to drive down the cost of solar, smart-energy products, and utility-scale batteries.
For example, Environmental Defense Fund is working in the Caribbean with residents and local leaders to pilot solar-charged microgrids and energy storage solutions that bring resilient and reliable electricity to remote locations where residents are most vulnerable to climate-fueled storms.
“The electricity sector is clearly heading toward decarbonization. The benefits of a cleaner, smarter grid should extend beyond lower emissions.”
– Daniel Whittle, Senior Director
Our work in Antigua and Barbados is showing how electric buses can reduce transportation emissions and provide life-saving power to the community during power outages.
“Island communities are on the front lines of climate change and are quickly implementing new technologies to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and strengthen their grid. What we learn here will inform solutions that can improve the grid everywhere."
– Amalia Saladrigas Malaret, Communities & Environmental Justice Project Manager
Transportation accounts for a large and growing portion of climate emissions and local air pollution. It’s also one of the best candidates to transition to clean electricity.
As auto markets rapidly transition toward electric cars, the buses and trucks that move our economies are the next major opportunity to reduce these emissions.
In the United States, medium- and heavy-duty vehicles make up only 4% of the vehicles on the road but produce 25% of all transportation climate emissions. Electrifying them will drastically reduce greenhouse and other pollution.
“The benefits of electrifying truck and bus fleets are enormous, but it’s not a simple process. Fleets are significant investments for companies, and thinking of these assets as both transportation and power resources is a dramatic paradigm shift.”
– Jason Mathers, Director of Vehicle & Freight Strategy
We are working with fleets, manufacturers, and utilities to make this conversion beneficial to all parties. We’re working with state, regional, and federal leaders to ensure trucks and buses are included in broader clean energy and economic incentive programs.
And we are helping companies so their fleets are ready to roll clean faster and more affordably. Our Fleet Electrification Solution Center is a first-of-its-kind, free online resource that connects fleet professionals with the solutions they need, all in one easy-to-navigate clearinghouse.
