Methodology for Utility Incentive Programs to Advance Nonroad Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure

This paper discusses a methodology for prescriptive and custom utility incentive programs to calculate and pay incentives on emissions reduction or beneficial load growth in order to accelerate adoption of electrified nonroad transportation assets. The emissions simulation methodology from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) NONROAD model is adapted into a per-unit calculator for use by utility incentive programs. Emissions reductions are calculated for individual projects that can be either retrofits or new purchases, and incentives are calculated per ton of CO2 reduced or per kW (or kWh) of load growth. This paper focuses on the following technologies: electric forklifts, airport ground support equipment, heavy-duty truck stop electrification, and electric truck refrigeration units. A case study of a cost-effective utility program at Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) using this methodology to promote the beneficial electrification of nonroad transportation and infrastructure is discussed.