Limiting global warming to 1.5°C requires halving global CO2 emissions by 2030 according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC 2018). This target requires a two step approach. From now to 2050, existing, industrially proven technologies, such as solar and wind, need to be deployed at an unprecedented scale and pace. Post 2050, new concepts and technologies are needed to replace dirtier parts.
This forum discusses smart electric energy and transportation technologies that enable new paths to decarbonization or enable decarbonization at scale. These technologies support the transition towards a sustainable transportation and electricity sector that account for 28% and 40% of the total energy consumption in the U.S., respectively, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Although both rely on fossil fuels, transportation remains more dependent on petroleum products and has recently exceeded the electric power sector in terms of CO2 emissions.
Bringing together experts from industry and academia, this forum discusses challenges and trends in smart energy production, conversion, and distribution including power electronic systems, energy storage, electric grid integration and policies. Together, these technologies will pave the way for a higher penetration of electrified transportation and smart electric energy systems.