ASC's Intersections Newsletter — October 27, 2022
Nora's Note
Powered by data. A recent federally funded study has mapped 10 years of EV charging patterns in homes across Austin, Texas. The results of the research indicate not just the patterns of EV owners in charging their vehicles, but how EVs could serve as home energy backups and help to balance demand on the grid with the adoption of flexible charging plans. EVs hold enough energy to power homes for several days when fully charged, allowing them to continue providing power to homes during storms and blackouts. Flexible charging times could also save EV owners money through incentive programs, addressing a major concern of many considering EVs. While the discussion on barriers to EV adoption has largely focused on supply and public charging networks, increased public engagement on the benefits and options available to EV owners at home will be crucial as we work to ensure an equitable transition to clean powered modes of transportation.
Transportation
TSA releases new cybersecurity requirements for passenger and freight railroads. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) released a new directive to strengthen cybersecurity within key infrastructure systems. Ransomware attacks have been on the rise recently and can lead to disruptions of key supply chains, with fuel pipelines and railroads particularly at risk. While previous directives from the TSA have outlined steps for improving cybersecurity, the new directive focuses on key outcomes, providing operators more options for implementation. Read more about the specific targets set by the TSA. (Source: Mass Transit)
Route Fifty: How Cities are Deciding Where Electric Vehicle Chargers Should Go
The Providence Journal: Rhode Island is offering rebates on electric bicycles. Here's what to know.
Associated Press: US awards $2.8B in grants for EV batteries in 12 states
Route Fifty: What to Know About the $350M in New Funding for Wildlife Crossings
Smart Cities Dive: DC mobility innovation district aims to increase transit access, model solutions
Energy/Environment
Utah’s Great Salt Lake shrinks to unsustainable levels amid a decades-long megadrought. As the Great Salt Lake’s water dries up toxic particulates are released into the air. The Utah Rivers Council reports that agriculture takes up 85% of Salt Lake City’s watershed, leaving only 7.5% for residential use. Stringent regulations have been implemented to preserve as much water as possible, yet more action may be needed to prevent the lake from drying up completely. Read more to find out how the state is responding to this crisis. (Source: PBS Newshour)
AP News: Clean Water Act at 50: environmental gains, challenges unmet
E&E News: Clean energy transition gains speed, despite global tumult
Reuters: US grid data needed for faster solar, wind build
Utility Dive: More interregional transmission could prevent East Coast blackouts, lower costs: NRDC report
The Hill: Biden administration announces first Pacific offshore wind lease sale
Economic Development
Collaboration between the private and public sectors is necessary to eliminate the challenges of implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Committee for Economic Development released a report on the current status of the bill’s implementation, describing the urgency to successfully coordinate its execution to strengthen the US economy. Elevated inflation, labor shortages and supply chain issues have caused delays, but states have continued to receive funding for infrastructure upgrades. Read more to learn how cooperation between business leaders and the government will serve as a catalyst for economic growth. (Source: Yahoo Finance)
Hudson Valley News: $200 million plans for iPark 87, formerly TechCity, ready to go
Innovateli: ESD Bolsters Future Workforce With $150M Grant Effort
Route Fifty: Construction Underway on 10,000-mile Open Access Broadband Network in California
E&E News: Climate law spurs ‘big jumps’ in U.S. battery investments
Smart Cities Dive: 7 urban asphalt art transformations in 2022
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