FedEx Supports New Project Mapping Charging Needs and Grid Readiness in the GTHA

The Pembina Institute launches initiative to help accelerate fleet electrification

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / March 27, 2024 / With generous support from FedEx, the Pembina Institute has launched the Grid Readiness Project to help accelerate the transition from gas- and diesel-powered fleets to zero-emission road freight.

The Grid Readiness Project is a unique collaboration between the Pembina Institute and RMI. At the end of the project's research and analysis phase, Pembina will release a comprehensive charging infrastructure Action Plan for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) that will assist decision-makers in determining optimal locations for commercial freight charging and refueling stations and their anticipated energy loads.

Operators of large fleets have already begun to switch over to low-carbon and electric commercial vehicles, and uptake is expected to continue its rise. However, the adoption of zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles is at risk of stalling largely because the deployment of charging infrastructure has not kept pace.

Utilities and energy regulators are only now beginning to make planning decisions that will address the steep increase in energy demand from zero-carbon road transportation. In the absence of research that can inform complex and dispersed decisions and investments, the Pembina Institute will undertake analysis using RMI's new GridUp data platform, a powerful tool that will inform utilities, energy regulators, and others on how to proactively locate, strengthen and upgrade charging infrastructure.

Pembina will also be working with municipalities, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to assess grid readiness and recommend next steps.

This announcement reflects a commitment by FedEx to advance sustainable transportation throughout Canada. FedEx is working toward transforming its entire parcel pickup and delivery fleet to zero-tailpipe-emissions vehicles by 2040, as part of its goal to reach carbon-neutral operations by the same year.

Quotes

"Fleet electrification is a key pillar of the FedEx roadmap to carbon-neutral operations by 2040 and our commitment to deliver a more sustainable future for all. Our commitment to the Pembina Institute will bring RMI's advanced grid planning tools to the Greater Toronto area, empowering key players in the electrification ecosystem with information needed to support a wide-scale transition to EVs."