Scaling Grid-Integrated Infrastructure for the Next Era of Transportation
As electric vehicles, fleet electrification, and distributed energy resources continue to reshape the grid, utilities must move from pilot programs to scalable, long-term infrastructure strategies. This session explores the planning, partnerships, and operational considerations required to support widespread transportation electrification while maintaining reliability and preparing for future demand. Attendees will learn how utilities are evaluating infrastructure investments, coordinating with stakeholders, integrating charging into broader grid modernization efforts, and balancing customer expectations with operational realities. The discussion will provide practical insights into building a flexible, resilient foundation that supports growing electrification needs while positioning the utility for long-term success.
Moderated by:
- Karl Popham, Chair of the Electric Vehicle Leadership Council, Chartwell Inc
Karl Popham is the Chair of the Electric Vehicle Leadership Council at Chartwell Inc. and a recognized leader with over 24 years of combined electric utility and consulting experience with a focus on transportation, electrification, strategy, and innovation. Previously, he had a 17-year career at Austin Energy, the nation’s 3rd largest city-owned electric utility, where he co-founded and led their award-winning Electric Vehicles & Emerging Technologies team and served as their Chief Information Officer. A Principal Investigator on twelve successful energy innovation grants, active speaker and board advisor, Karl is co-author of “Smart Cities; Applications & Standards” a college textbook published by Springer. Previous career experience includes strategy and innovation consulting for Global 100 companies and a Captain in the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Panelists:
- Paul DiBenedetto, Electric Vehicle Program Manager, PSEG Long Island
Paul DiBenedetto is the Electric Vehicle Program Manager for PSEG Long Island, where he leads the utility’s transportation electrification initiatives, including EV infrastructure, fleet electrification, customer incentives, and innovative rate programs. He oversees a portfolio that includes EV Make Ready, Fleet Advisory Services, Fleet Make Ready, EV Phase-In Rate, residential charger rebates, and residential active managed charging. During his decade with PSEG Long Island, Paul has also led non-wires alternative evaluations, supported major grid modernization filings, and developed analytical tools that improve customer decision-making and utility operations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in General Engineering from Pennsylvania State University, an MBA in Innovation from Stony Brook University, and is a Certified Energy Manager (CEM).
- Katie Davis, Manager, Beneficial Electrification, ComEd
Katie joined ComEd as a Senior Business Program Manager on the Green Power Connection team in 2023. ComEd’s Green Power Connection team provides resources and support to customers during their solar journey. Katie has more than a decade of experience in energy, sustainability, and workforce development. Most recently, she was the Director of the Illinois Green Economy Network, a consortium of Illinois community colleges working to drive growth of the clean energy economy and green workforce. Katie has a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Illinois Wesleyan University.
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