Welcome to another exciting episode of the ‘The Future of Ground Transportation’ podcast! In this episode, host Daniel Perez sits down with Hugh Reece, Program Manager at National Grid, to discuss the electrification of fleets and the innovative programs National Grid is implementing to support this transition. This episode explores National Grid's crucial role in promoting the adoption of EVs and aligning with Massachusetts' ambitious clean energy targets.

Here are some power takeaways from today's conversation:

• National Grid's role in supporting fleet electrification

• Massachusetts' ambitious clean energy goals

• Comprehensive fleet electrification programs

• Challenges and solutions in the transition to electric vehicles

• The importance of right-sizing infrastructure and leveraging expert advice

Episode Highlights:

National Grid's role in supporting fleet electrification:

Hugh Reece outlines how National Grid is spearheading initiatives to help Massachusetts achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The company offers various programs and incentives aimed at facilitating the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across both public and private fleets.

Massachusetts' ambitious clean energy goals:

The state’s target is to have over 900,000 EVs on the road by 2035, with the ultimate goal of reaching 1.1 million EVs. Reece discusses how state policies and utility programs are essential to accelerating this transition.

Comprehensive fleet electrification programs:

National Grid offers a range of programs to support fleet electrification, including Fleet Advisory Services, Make Ready Programs, and Off-Peak Rebate Programs. These initiatives are designed to help fleet operators transition to electric vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Challenges and solutions in the transition to electric vehicles:

Reece discusses the high upfront costs of EVs and the necessary infrastructure, the need for specialized workforce training, and the current limitations in vehicle availability for different use cases. He emphasizes the importance of considering the long-term cost savings and total cost of ownership of EVs.

The importance of right-sizing infrastructure and leveraging expert advice:

Emphasizing the significance of tailoring the infrastructure to specific needs, Reece explains that over-sizing can lead to unnecessary expenses. He advocates for leveraging external expertise, such as the Fleet Advisory Services and MassCEC programs, to ensure organizations make informed decisions.

Resources Mentioned:

For more detailed information on National Grid’s EV programs and to connect with Hugh Reece for guidance, reach out via email at hugh.reece@nationalgrid.com.

About the Guest

Hugh Reece, is a Senior Program Manager dedicated to supporting National Grid's Fleet EV Programs in Massachusetts. Hugh is an accomplished professional with expertise in cleantech, program management, and enterprise client management.

Before joining National Grid, Hugh worked at Volta Charging, where he provided support to sales and operations teams. Prior to Volta Charging, he worked at Modivcare, managing a portfolio of enterprise clients; He also spent time at Enel (formerly EnerNOC), where he implemented both their suite of energy management services and Demand Response programs.

He resides in Medford MA with his wife and two children. Outside of work you’ll find him hanging with the family, mountain biking in the warmer months and in the winter months, skiing as much as he can.