Transportation Electrification and the Low Carbon Grid: Perspectives from E3’s work in California, Hawaii and New York

Abstract:  Dr. Nancy Ryan will present findings from several recent E3 studies that have examined the extent of transportation electrification needed to meet aggressive GHG mitigation goals and explored aspects of integrating electric vehicles into an increasingly low carbon grid. In a series of studies for California regulatory agencies E3 has used its PATHWAYS model to develop scenarios for deep decarbonization. Scenarios that meet California’s 2030 and 2050 targets include high levels of transportation electrification, with deployment of EVs in 2025 significantly higher than the current ZEV Program goal.  The PATHWAYS analysis also demonstrates the cost savings that result from using the flexibility in EV charging loads to balance variable renewable generation. In supporting the CPUC’s Integrated Resource Planning efforts under SB350, E3 has used its long term capacity expansion model (RESOLVE) to develop least-cost resource portfolios that optimize the trade-off between renewable curtailment and flexibility. This work informs the valuation of flexibility services from EVs and provides a basis to weigh investments in developing and accessing smart charging technology and programs. E3’s EVGrid model provides an addition set of perspectives.  Utilities have used it to project the distribution grid upgrades needed to accommodate EV charging under different scenarios for the rate of adoption and type of charging infrastructure deployed. EVGrid estimates the costs and benefits of EV adoption from the perspective of EV owners, ratepayers, and society. Recently completed studies for NYSERDA and Hawaiian Electric Companies show that EV adoption provides societal and benefits, demonstrates the value of implementing smart charging.

Bio:  Dr. Nancy Ryan is an economist who focuses on GHG mitigation policy, electricity regulation, and transportation electrification at E3, and handles much of its regulatory and business strategy work. She has spent her career working for effective, data-driven energy solutions as a consultant, a regulator, an academic, and an environmental advocate—personifying the 360-degree industry perspective that guides all of E3’s work.

Nancy joined E3 in 2013 after working for seven years with the California Public Utilities Commission. She was appointed a commissioner by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, serving from 2010 to 2011. She also served as deputy executive director for policy and external relations and chief of staff to the president, working closely with policy makers, regulators, and stakeholders in areas such as renewable energy, the smart grid, electric transportation, and the implementation of cap and trade for the electric sector. Her career also includes five years at the Environmental Defense Fund, where she focused on energy and climate policy and dabbled in water. She also held positions at several consulting firms.

Nancy received her PhD in economics from the University of California, Berkeley and her BA in economics from Yale University.