Utility-driven Programs Expanding EV Access for Low and Medium-Income Households


Mar 25th 10AM to 11AM PST

Learn how utilities are driving equitable access through transportation electrification programs.

As the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) continues its momentum, it is critical that this transition is accessible and affordable for all communities. This webinar will spotlight how utilities are key in bridging the equity gap in transportation electrification by implementing targeted programs for underserved populations.

Utility-led programs have the potential to play a transformative role in making EVs accessible to low and medium-income families through incentives, rebates, and infrastructure support. However, significant barriers remain, including the high upfront cost of EVs, lack of charging infrastructure in low-income neighborhoods, and limited awareness of available educational resources. By prioritizing equity, utilities can ensure that the transition to electric mobility benefits all customers, regardless of income level.

Join us to explore how utility-driven initiatives are addressing these challenges and barriers. Topics will include,

  • Utility incentives and rebates for EV purchases and home charging infrastructure

  • Discounted electricity rates for EV charging, and building public charging stations in underserved areas. 

  • Outreach and education to raise awareness about such programs

This webinar is presented by Forth and the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP) and will feature actionable insights, real-world examples, and proven strategies that utility programs are using to create a more inclusive transition to electric mobility.

Register Now

Moderator

Pamela Fann | Founder & CEO, Integrated Solutions

Pam, an award-winning diversity specialist, is the Founder and CEO of Integrated Solutions, an energy services company that focuses on energy efficiency project implementation, workforce development, and civic engagement. They develop frameworks to implement the cultural competency necessary for successful, equitable, and sustainable program and project development. Their mission is to promote an equitable energy economy that positively impacts lives and supports community advancement. Pam served on a diversity board for more than 7 years with The Coca-Cola Company and currently serves as the diversity advisor for the BECC conference and on the boards and advisory boards for multiple organizations, including the Association of Energy Services Professionals (AESP), Forth, and Women of EVs.


Speakers

Lydia Krefta | Director of Clean Energy Transportation, PG&E Corporation

Lydia is the Director of Pacific Gas & Electric’s (PG&E) Clean Energy Transportation team. Her team has a goal of enabling three million electric vehicles to connect to PG&E’s grid by 2030, with at least two million electric vehicles participating in vehicle-grid-integration applications. To achieve this, her team focuses on transportation electrification strategy and analysis, policy advocacy, and the customer experience. She also leads development of new EV programs and pilots - with a focus on vehicle-grid-integration, and manages over $500M of EV infrastructure and rebate programs.


Karan Patel | Managing Director of Energy Solutions and Clean Energy, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC)

As Managing Director - Energy Solutions and Clean Energy, Karan plays a pivotal role in steering REC towards a sustainable future, focusing on the integration and expansion of energy solutions and clean energy technologies. Programs in this area aim to enlighten and involve members in embracing technologies that boost their energy independence and resilience, with an emphasis on sustainability. Karan is at the forefront of developing and implementing member-focused strategic initiatives that encompass a broad spectrum of energy solutions including solar power, battery storage, backup generators, electric vehicles, energy efficiency, smart grid technologies, distributed energy resource management systems, and other innovative energy solutions. He plays a pivotal role in shaping REC’s future in energy solutions and clean energy, thereby providing significant benefits to REC’s members.


Amy Atchley | EV Equity Development Manager, Austin Energy

Amy Atchley is a leader in social impact; possessing a diverse skill set that draws from over 20 years of experience serving vulnerable communities through her work with the non-profit sector with agencies like Meals on Wheels Central Texas and the VH1 Save the Music Foundation. Her role at Austin Energy is building frameworks of equity through transportation electrification access by collaborating with community stakeholders and historically underserved communities. She brings an experienced perspective and passion to her work by designing human centered programs that ensure people are not left behind as emerging technologies become mainstream. The core of Amy’s work is to develop and implement new market offerings and policy direction to provide a meaningful community impact that advance decarbonization. Amy’s community leadership roles include Board of Directors at EcoRise and she is also a working Austin-based singer/songwriter.