NYC DCAS – Lily Edelman-Gold – 2023
Goals
In New York City’s efforts to become a leader in sustainability, and in line with Executive Order #53, NYC’s Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) aims to electrify its vast 30,000-vehicle fleet, the largest municipal fleet in the nation. To achieve a fully zero-emission fleet, they enlisted EDF Climate Corps Fellow, Lily Edelman-Gold, for summer 2023 to support the city’s EV charging infrastructure and facilitate the transition to electric vehicles.
Solutions
During her summer tenure, Edelman-Gold took on three major projects:
- Specifications for off-grid solar charging solutions RFP (request for proposal): The RFP encompassed single-car solar carports, multi-car solar canopies, and car-and-bike solar charging solutions. These specifications will likely be published within the next year.
- Specifications for Level 2 electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) RFP: Building upon the previous Climate Corps fellow’s work, Lily created specifications that include solutions for large vehicles that require ceiling-mounted chargers. DCAS will likely publish these within the next year.
- Introduction to Electric Vehicles Guide for NYC fleet drivers: The guide will ensure their drivers’ smooth transition to EVs by explaining the differences between ICE vehicles and EVs, charging processes, and step-by-step instructions for successful charging.
- ADA Compliance for EVSE Placement: An overview of ADA requirements and best practices for EVSE placement within charging spaces.
Potential Impact
DCAS will utilize the off-grid solar and level 2 specifications to establish long-term contracts with suitable vendors for each type of charging solution, enabling greater procurement flexibility including moving away from GSA schedule-based procurement. The EV introductory guide will be distributed as a ready-made presentation and handbook to various agencies, aiding employees in transitioning to EVs by promoting familiarity, minimizing misuse, and reducing charging-related confusion.
