Duke Energy's Carbon-Free Charging Solution: A Game Changer for Fleet Electrification

Duke Energy has recently unveiled a groundbreaking microgrid solution that offers a carbon-free charging option for commercial vehicle fleets, marking a significant milestone in the transition towards sustainable transportation. This innovative project, a collaboration between Duke Energy, Electrada, and Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), is set to revolutionize the electrification of fleets, providing a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly charging infrastructure.

The Duke Energy + Electrada Fleet Mobility Microgrid, located in Mount Holly, North Carolina, serves a dual purpose as a model for utility-grade, reliable fleet electrification and as an active charging site for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty electric fleet vehicles. The microgrid, powered by 100% carbon-free resources such as solar, battery storage, hydrogen, and other generation types, enables vehicles to be charged from the grid or switched to renewable energy generation, reducing their carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.

Electrada's investment in charging infrastructure behind the meter complements Duke Energy's focus on distribution system performance. By providing reliable charging to fleet electric vehicles through a performance contract, Electrada eliminates complexity and risk for fleets transitioning to this new fuel source. This model ensures grid integrity, guarantees performance and reliability, and removes electric fleet charging price volatility. Electrada's investment on the depot side allows Duke Energy to concentrate on distribution system performance, supporting the predictable addition of electric load over time.



DTNA's involvement in this project provides an ideal testing ground for EV charging technologies at its East Coast manufacturing plant. The Mount Holly Microgrid Center, integrating solar, storage, and microgrid controls, offers a reliable, carbon-free charging option for fleets, reinforcing Duke Energy's commitment to sustainable business operations.

The potential economic and environmental impacts of widespread adoption of Duke Energy's microgrid solution for fleet electrification are substantial. By offering a carbon-free charging option, it can help businesses meet sustainability goals and reduce operating costs. According to RMI, fleets make up about 3% of all vehicles but have an outsized influence on transportation electrification. Widespread adoption could generate billions in net benefits for states like North Carolina, as highlighted by the Environmental Defense Fund. Moreover, by integrating renewable energy sources, Duke Energy's solution can help stabilize the grid and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a cleaner environment.



In conclusion, Duke Energy's first-of-its-kind microgrid solution offers a carbon-free charging option for commercial vehicle fleets, paving the way for a more sustainable future in transportation. By collaborating with Electrada and DTNA, Duke Energy is accelerating the adoption of electric vehicle fleets in the commercial sector, providing a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly charging infrastructure. As the demand for sustainable transportation continues to grow, the potential economic and environmental benefits of this innovative solution are substantial. Investors seeking stable, long-term growth opportunities in the renewable energy sector should consider the potential of Duke Energy's microgrid solution for fleet electrification.