Florida PSC Holds Electric Vehicle Charging Roundtable

Impacts surrounding the growing market for electric vehicles were discussed today during a Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) roundtable, featuring utility, manufacturer, and industry development representatives.
A myriad of topics covered the necessary infrastructure for both public and private electric vehicle charging and the potential effects on energy consumption and the state’s electric grid.  Sales forecasts, market development, and consumer preferences were also discussed, as well as future regulatory considerations.
“As electric vehicle popularity and demand continues to grow, we want to make sure Florida can adapt to the evolving technology and associated infrastructure requirements,” said PSC Chairman Julie Brown.  “The good news we heard today is that EVs can reduce Florida’s fossil fuel consumption, and they will play an important role in our state’s overall transportation plans.
“We’ll continue to study EV charging stations, the required infrastructure needs, and the role of Florida’s utilities in this rapidly expanding industry,” she added.
Roundtable participants included: Edison Electric Institute, Drive Electric Florida, General Motors, Tesla, ChargePoint, EVgo, Florida Power & Light Company, Duke Energy Florida, Tampa Electric Company, Gulf Power Company, Florida Public Utilities Company, Orlando Utilities Commission, the City of Tallahassee, and the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association.
PSC staff conducted a workshop in 2012 to provide a discussion forum about electric vehicle charging and its future growth.  The report is available on the PSC’s website.
For additional information, visit www.floridapsc.com.