Many fleet executives working at electric utilities have doubts about implementing global positioning system (GPS) tracking technology into their fleet operations. A number of doubts exist. For example, GPS technologies are designed to track a vehicle’s whereabouts; this can lead to trust issues between fleet executives and their drivers. Second, the utility might not have the budget to include technologies such as GPS tracking on its expense sheet. Lastly, fleet executives might believe that the...
Exploiting the full potential of global positioning system software BY RYAN DRISCOLL, GPS Insight North American electric utilities experience a number of challenges when managing fleet vehicles such as digger derricks and bucket trucks. A few of these include fuel consumption costs, maintenance...
For utilities who want to reduce costs in record time BY ROB HOYSGAARD, ARI Save, or saving, is defined as the act of avoiding unnecessary waste or expense. The key word in that definition is unnecessary. A 50 percent reduction is essential, on-the-road vehicles do not result in savings; rather it...
How technology is changing testing and performance monitoring BY AARON RUDGER, Keynote North American electric utilities are experiencing a rapid shift to a mobile- first environment. Numerous research firms are confirming that the sale of smartphones and tablets has overtaken personal computers....
How to reduce peak load in constrained areas of the grid BY W. HUGH GAASCH, Retroficiency With an aging infrastructure, rising demand, and an increasingly stringent regulatory climate, utilities across the country face some tough decisions in the coming decade. The American Association of Civil...
In a significant shift in its renewable energy strategy, New Jersey has recently decided to cancel its plans to award a fourth offshore wind farm project. The decision marks a crucial moment in the state’s ongoing efforts to expand its offshore wind sector, which has long been hailed as a...
The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project, one of the United States’ largest offshore wind developments, has encountered an increase in its projected costs, but it remains on track to meet its scheduled completion by the end of 2026. The project, spearheaded by Dominion Energy, is set...
Whales, the majestic giants of the ocean, have long captivated human imagination. Beyond their grandeur, these marine mammals are now providing scientists with invaluable insights into climate change, offering a unique perspective on the health of our planet. Whales as Climate Change...
In December 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced funding to support community-led geothermal projects, aiming to enhance local energy resilience and promote equitable access to renewable energy. This initiative underscores the DOE's commitment to empowering communities in the...
In December 2024, President Joe Biden's administration set an ambitious target to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 61% to 66% by 2035, compared to 2005 levels. This goal aligns with the Paris Agreement's framework, which requires participating nations to update their emission reduction...
As the world grapples with the accelerating impacts of climate change, U.S. policymakers are increasingly recognizing the need for bold and effective strategies to reduce carbon emissions. One of the most outspoken advocates for such action is Senator Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island, who has...
