Washington D.C. – As the need to reduce greenhouse gases becomes even more urgent, so does the importance of decarbonizing the transportation sector. While federal and state governments are issuing regulations and offering incentives to encourage greater electric vehicle (EV) use among individuals and fleet operators, increasing focus is on ensuring that our infrastructure can support this shift.
On October 22, 2024, the Environmental Law Institute is convening the 2024 Firestone Policy Forum where a group of esteemed panelists who represent multiple sectors, industries, and perspectives will discuss the legal and policy opportunities for an equitable transition toward sustainable transportation. The in-person event is free to the public, but registration is required.
Panelists include Cynthia Williams (Ford Motor Co.), Beia Spiller (Resources for the Future), Rob Gramlich (Grid Strategies), Jeffrey C. Page (FedEx Corporation), and Andrew Wishnia (EpicWorks Advisors). The panel will be moderated by Jordan Diamond (Environmental Law Institute). Joel M. Gross, Senior Counsel at Arnold & Porter, will provide introductory remarks.
“Electrification of our vehicles represents a substantial increase in electricity demand, and even as new renewable energy generation is coming on line, the changes are taxing our aging electricity grid,” explains ELI President Jordan Diamond. “To meet the demand on the timelines called for, new generation must move quickly through interconnection, construction, and operation, and important policy hurdles must be overcome if we want this infrastructure to be equitable and sustainable,” she added.
The Firestone Policy Forum will examine a host of different questions, including what infrastructure needs to be created, and how can it be incorporated into land use planning? How can infrastructure, such as charging stations, be installed equitably and accessibly across the country? What are potential opportunities to incentivize the adoption of electric vehicles? What challenges will utilities and other stakeholders face as more electric vehicles are sold, and how can they be addressed?
The Firestone Policy Forum is held yearly and named in honor of the late Judge Nancy Firestone (1951-2022). An exemplary figure in the environmental law sphere, Judge Firestone's legacy as an attorney, policymaker, and judge continues to inspire and guide our community. Her tireless commitment to the environment echoes in the very ethos of this forum.
The Firestone Policy Forum will take place on October 22 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C.
For event details and registration information, please visit https://www.eli.org/events/2024-firestone-policy-forum-road-equitable-and-sustainable-ev-infrastructure.