DUE TO THE INCOMING WEATHER, WE HAVE DECIDED TO MOVE THIS MEETING TO BE VIRTUAL ONLY. Please use the following Zoom Meeting link to join the meeting at 12:00 p.m.   

Join Zoom Meeting

https://gbateam.zoom.us/j/96364491886?pwd=L0hIT1lEWHF0M1hHbkRHWDJTZjhndz09

Meeting ID: 963 6449 1886

Passcode: 445390

For those that have already paid, we will work to distribute meeting vouchers that can be applied to a future meeting registration.

The Electrifying Truth: The Impacts of Vehicle Electrification

The number of electric vehicles is on the rise and so is the focus to reduce emissions. The implications are far-reaching, from challenges to the power grid and having enough charging stations to the economic impacts of long wait times at convenient store charging stations and a dwindling gas tax. Despite the advances in technology, electric vehicles continue to be more expensive than gas engine vehicles. This presentation will address several questions, including:

• Are EV’s actually better for the environment?
• What are the impacts to the electrical grid?
• What are the societal and equity impacts?
• What are the impacts to fueling stations and convenience stores?
• How will we replace the gas tax for transportation funding?

The presentation will be given by Blake Hansen, PE, PTOE, PMP and Rusty Hartman, PE with Olsson.  

Blake is a traffic and telecommunications industry expert with more than 20 years of experience. Blake has both experience and a keen interest in all types of transportation technology, especially in the anticipated benefits and impacts of connectivity, automation, and electrification. He is a transportation technology subject matter expert with experience in design, planning, construction, maintenance, operations, integration, and software deployment. Blake is a registered Project Management Professional, Professional Traffic Operations Engineer, and Professional Engineer in multiple states. Blake received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of Utah. 

Rusty attended the University of Missouri in Columbia where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. As a team leader for Olsson’s Power team, Rusty is knowledgeable and experienced in mechanical/electrical design. He is a seasoned pro in electrical substation, transmission, and distribution projects in the public sector. His involvement in engineering for municipalities and renewable energy projects positions him as a thought leader for Olsson. Rusty is high energy when it comes to discussing energy. His insight regarding electric vehicles (EV) is sure to get the discussion going about accommodating increased loads on the electrical grid because of EV. He will have you thinking about power deserts, microgrids, renewable generation, and how quickly the transition to electric vehicles will happen in your community.