Since 2016, a group called the Drive Electric PA Coalition has been gathering periodically to discuss ways to support the use of electric vehicles. The coalition met this week (virtually, of course) and discussed EV fees, electricity pricing and EV-related legislation in the state House and Senate.
The coalition is housed in the Department of Environmental Protection’s Energy Programs Office. Coalition members include state and municipal government officials, Clean Cities Coalitions, EV businesses and consultants, transportation organizations, electric utilities, environmental groups, auto companies and individuals.
In 2019, DEP published a report called the Pennsylvania Electric Vehicle Roadmap with information about ways to encourage EV use, and the report has been updated recently. The update can be found here.
Vehicle manufacturers across the globe have signaled their intention to focus on EV production as scientists, regulators and the public look for ways to reduce emissions and combat climate change. For those who are interested in keeping up with EV issues, the coalition’s website is a good place to start.
Be of Good Cheer,
— The Wolff
TRANSPORTATION ISSUE UPDATE
- Former KTFC member Michelle Schultz was sworn in as the newest member of the federal Surface Transportation Board. She represented SEPTA in the KTFC.
- Johnstown-area state Sen. Wayne Langerholc Jr. was named chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, as the three other House and Senate committee chairs remained the same.
- In freight rail news, Governor Wolf announced the approval of 26 rail freight improvement projects that will enhance freight mobility while creating or sustaining more than 200 jobs across Pennsylvania.
- The U.S. Department of Transportation announced $40 million in grants will be awarded to five states, including Pennsylvania, seeking to improve safety at grade crossings.