Catherine Kummer's guest appearances

Catherine Kummer

Talk with Green Guy

Sustainable Nation

Beyond The Meter

Rob Threlkeld

Mark Lewis

Brittany Bennett

Anne Kelly

Joel Makower

Levi Strauss

John Rogers

Amanda King

Tim Trefzer

Michael Kobori

Scott Paul

Jeff Wooster

Hunter Lovins

Meghna Tare

Joel Solomon

OwlTail

Michael Luhrs

We’ve all heard of the new electric vehicles that Tesla and other manufacturers are producing, but when you look at electric vehicles from a broader fleet perspective, the possibilities for reducing carbon emissions long-term are exciting! The Smart Energy Decisions team believes this issue of fleet and public transportation conversion to be a key component in moving the energy transition forward, so this conversation was especially interesting to us.   Our guests on this episode are Catherine Kummer, Climate Advisor for the American Cities Climate Challenge to the City of Charlotte, NC, and Michael Luhrs, Vice President of Market Strategy and Solutions for Duke Energy. Speaking from their unique positions, each of them provides a wonderful perspective on the issues driving the move toward fleet and public transportation electrification, how it’s being accomplished on the ground, how the issue impacts corporations, and what role utilities like Duke are playing in making the transition possible. It’s exciting to hear what’s happening and what is projected to happen in the years to come. Don’t miss this enlightening and encouraging conversation.   You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...    Catherine Kummer’s background in renewable energy and transportation [1:44] Michael Luhrs’ work with clean energy and energy efficiency at Duke Energy [2:39] What is driving interest in electric vehicle pilot programs in cities? [3:42] The key drivers of corporate initiatives to create electrified fleets [11:06] Why utilities are embracing the move toward electrification of vehicles [13:47] Reasons cities and businesses believe electrification of vehicles is essential [17:57] Why the total cost of ownership makes the Electric Vehicle (EV) transition a total win [22:28] The role utilities need to play in the EV transition [33:21] Barriers to making the EV switch and how to overcome them [43:55] Looking 3 to 5 years into the future when it comes to vehicle electrification [49:50]    Charlotte, NC is leading the charge in electrifying its fleets   When asked what is fueling the drive behind the electrification of municipality fleets and public transportation, Catherine says that, quite honestly, it’s the cities themselves. As the Climate Advisor for the City of Charlotte, NC she has a front-row seat to the initiatives that the City Hall and City Council are taking in this important step toward the smart energy transition.    The city of Charlotte has implemented an aggressive public education campaign surrounding its clean energy goals, which include community outreach and engagement via many platforms. The city has also put into place two new policies that support electrification goals. These come directly from their Strategic Energy Action plan and aim to entirely electrify the city's fleet by 2030. Currently, as part of that plan, they are working toward the addition of 27 electric vehicles to their light-duty fleet, at an investment of over $740,000, which would make 42 total electric vehicles for the city. The city is also ensuring that the charging infrastructure required is part of that expansion. It’s cities like Charlotte that are leading the way nationwide.   Corporate &amp; utility drivers toward electrification of vehicles   When it comes to why corporations are moving toward the electrification of their vehicles, Michael puts it best when he says it's about sustainability and efficiency — or being clean and cost-effective. Duke Energy has recognized that its constituents are taking on the mantle of the renewable energy transition. With that, corporations are adapting to provide the value to their customers that they want and need. A significant benefit can also be derived from the cost savings involved when implementing electric vehicles. Maintenance, fuel expenditures, noise and emissions pollution, and more go into these savings.    Utilities see the fundamental shift occurring globally in the form of mandates from many cities around the globe that ban emission-producing vehicles by specific dates. Utility companies like Duke can look across the value chain to both produce and deliver the resources needed. The initial load increase for utilities will only be 2% to 4% in most cases, but long term, that demand will grow. The ability to put the infrastructure needed in place is the strength of the value proposition utilities provide.    The total cost of ownership enables the cost of EVs to make sense   Much of the debate about the cost of electrifying municipal or corporate fleets and public transportation has to do with the initial outlay of cash required to get started. While it is a significant upfront investment, that should not be allowed to be the deciding factor. Why? Simply put, it’s an extremely short-sighted approach.   Both Catherine and Michael speak persuasively about the long-term benefits that come from fleet electrification in terms of cost reduction, emissions reduction, and other infrequently considered benefits. Because of this issue, Catherine has developed her own “Total Cost of Ownership” calculations to show exactly how and when cost reductions will occur in the implementation of the Charlotte plan so that all stakeholders can see the black and white of the issue and make informed decisions that benefit the big picture.     Connect With Our Guests   Catherine Kummer - Climate Advisor American Cities Climate Challenge    Catherine Kummer serves as a Climate Advisor for the City of Charlotte as part of the Bloomberg Philanthropies American Cities Climate Challenge—and in partnership with NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council)—which works to accelerate climate action in 25 cities throughout the United States. Catherine joined the Climate Challenge advising the City of Charlotte after spending the last eight years as the Senior Director of Green Innovation for the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing, NASCAR.  A native of Raeford, North Carolina, Catherine holds a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, an M.A. in Sustainability from Wake Forest University and Executive Education for Sustainability Leadership from Harvard University.    Follow Catherine Kummer on LinkedIn    Michael Luhrs - VP Market Strategy &amp; Solutions   Michael Luhrs serves as Vice President of Market Strategy and Solutions for Duke Energy. In this role, he is responsible for bringing integrated solutions across the digital and physical energy infrastructure to provide unique value and solutions nationally. Michael’s strong focus on innovation, transformation and growth of customer solutions has proven successful with improving and accelerating departments through disciplined innovation, strategy alignment, revenue growth, regulatory adaptation and driving cost efficiencies.   The teams aligned under Michael’s purview are: Home &amp; Business Services, Market Strategy, Connected Communities, Solutions Development, Solutions Partner, Transportation Electrification, and Portfolio Structuring. Collectively, the Market Strategy and Solution team generate approximately $500M in EBIT each year. The functions of these departments lead the evolution of the business from strategy to solutions development to execution across all customer segments. They cover a broad range of solutions from demand response, non-regulated products (such as behind the meter energy protection and insurance/risk mitigation services), digital infrastructure services, small cell and macro wireless, outdoor lighting, and electrification of transportation. Michael offers more than 20 years of experience in the energy industry. Known for his excellence in business strategy and operations, Michael is a creative thinker and problem solver. He has a knack for developing client-centered solutions and generating a positive impact to the bottom line.   Before assuming his current position, Michael served as General Manager of Business Excellence for Duke Energy. Prior to the merger with Progress Energy in 2012, Michael served as General Manager of Energy Supply Finance for Progress Energy. He has held several other leadership roles including Resource Planning Manager, Audit Manager, as well as roles in Generation Operations. Born in Colorado, Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, as well as Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Management Finance and Economics, from North Carolina State University. He was also distinguished with Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa honors.    Follow Michael Luhrs on LinkedIn    Connect With Smart Energy Decisions    https://www.smartenergydecisions.com/ Follow them on Facebook Follow them on Twitter Follow them  on LinkedIn 

We’ve all heard of the new electric vehicles that Tesla and other manufacturers are producing, but when you look at electric vehicles from a broader fleet perspective, the possibilities for reducing carbon emissions long-term are exciting! The Smart Energy Decisions team believes this issue of fleet and public transportation conversion to be a key component in moving the energy transition forward, so this conversation was especially interesting to us. Our guests on this episode are Catherine Kummer, Climate Advisor for the American Cities Climate Challenge to the City of Charlotte, NC, and Michael Luhrs, Vice President of Market Strategy and Solutions for Duke Energy. Speaking from their unique positions, each of them provides a wonderful perspective on the issues driving the move toward fleet and public transportation electrification, how it’s being accomplished on the ground, how the issue impacts corporations, and what role utilities like Duke are playing in making the transition possible. It’s exciting to hear what’s happening and what is projected to happen in the years to come. Don’t miss this enlightening and encouraging conversation.   You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... <ul> <li>Catherine Kummer’s background in renewable energy and transportation [1:44]</li> <li>Michael Luhrs’ work with clean energy and energy efficiency at Duke Energy [2:39]</li> <li>What is driving interest in electric vehicle pilot programs in cities? [3:42]</li> <li>The key drivers of corporate initiatives to create electrified fleets [11:06]</li> <li>Why utilities are embracing the move toward electrification of vehicles [13:47]</li> <li>Reasons cities and businesses believe electrification of vehicles is essential [17:57]</li> <li>Why the total cost of ownership makes the Electric Vehicle (EV) transition a total win [22:28]</li> <li>The role utilities need to play in the EV transition [33:21]</li> <li>Barriers to making the EV switch and how to overcome them [43:55]</li> <li>Looking 3 to 5 years into the future when it comes to vehicle electrification [49:50]</li> </ul>   Charlotte, NC is leading the charge in electrifying its fleets When asked what is fueling the drive behind the electrification of municipality fleets and public transportation, Catherine says that, quite honestly, it’s the cities themselves. As the Climate Advisor for the City of Charlotte, NC she has a front-row seat to the initiatives that the City Hall and City Council are taking in this important step toward the smart energy transition.  The city of Charlotte has implemented an aggressive public education campaign surrounding its clean energy goals, which include community outreach and engagement via many platforms. The city has also put into place two new policies that support electrification goals. These come directly from their Strategic Energy Action plan and aim to entirely electrify the city's fleet by 2030. Currently, as part of that plan, they are working toward the addition of 27 electric vehicles to their light-duty fleet, at an investment of over $740,000, which would make 42 total electric vehicles for the city. The city is also ensuring that the charging infrastructure required is part of that expansion. It’s cities like Charlotte that are leading the way nationwide.   Corporate &amp; utility drivers toward electrification of vehicles When it comes to why corporations are moving toward the electrification of their vehicles, Michael puts it best when he says it's about sustainability and efficiency — or being clean and cost-effective. Duke Energy has recognized that its constituents are taking on the mantle of the renewable energy transition. With that, corporations are adapting to provide the value to their customers that they want and need. A significant benefit can also be derived from the cost savings involved when implementing electric vehicles. Maintenance, fuel expenditures, noise and emissions pollution, and more go into these savings.  Utilities see the fundamental shift occurring globally in the form of mandates from many cities around the globe that ban emission-producing vehicles by specific dates. Utility companies like Duke can look across the value chain to both produce and deliver the resources needed. The initial load increase for utilities will only be 2% to 4% in most cases, but long term, that demand will grow. The ability to put the infrastructure needed in place is the strength of the value proposition utilities provide.    The total cost of ownership enables the cost of EVs to make sense Much of the debate about the cost of electrifying municipal or corporate fleets and public transportation has to do with the initial outlay of cash required to get started. While it is a significant upfront investment, that should not be allowed to be the deciding factor. Why? Simply put, it’s an extremely short-sighted approach. Both Catherine and Michael speak persuasively about the long-term benefits that come from fleet electrification in terms of cost reduction, emissions reduction, and other infrequently considered benefits. Because of this issue, Catherine has developed her own “Total Cost of Ownership” calculations to show exactly how and when cost reductions will occur in the implementation of the Charlotte plan so that all stakeholders can see the black and white of the issue and make informed decisions that benefit the big picture.   Connect With Our Guests Catherine Kummer - Climate Advisor American Cities Climate Challenge  Catherine Kummer serves as a Climate Advisor for the City of Charlotte as part of the Bloomberg Philanthropies American Cities Climate Challenge—and in partnership with NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council)—which works to accelerate climate action in 25 cities throughout the United States. Catherine joined the Climate Challenge advising the City of Charlotte after spending the last eight years as the Senior Director of Green Innovation for the National Association of Stock Car Auto Racing, NASCAR.  A native of Raeford, North Carolina, Catherine holds a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, an M.A. in Sustainability from Wake Forest University and Executive Education for Sustainability Leadership from Harvard University. <ul> <li>Follow Catherine Kummer <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinekummer/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">on LinkedIn</a></li> </ul> Michael Luhrs - VP Market Strategy &amp; Solutions Michael Luhrs serves as Vice President of Market Strategy and Solutions for Duke Energy. In this role, he is responsible for bringing integrated solutions across the digital and physical energy infrastructure to provide unique value and solutions nationally. Michael’s strong focus on innovation, transformation and growth of customer solutions has proven successful with improving and accelerating departments through disciplined innovation, strategy alignment, revenue growth, regulatory adaptation and driving cost efficiencies. The teams aligned under Michael’s purview are: Home &amp; Business Services, Market Strategy, Connected Communities, Solutions Development, Solutions Partner, Transportation Electrification, and Portfolio Structuring. Collectively, the Market Strategy and Solution team generate approximately $500M in EBIT each year. The functions of these departments lead the evolution of the business from strategy to solutions development to execution across all customer segments. They cover a broad range of solutions from demand response, non-regulated products (such as behind the meter energy protection and insurance/risk mitigation services), digital infrastructure services, small cell and macro wireless, outdoor lighting, and electrification of transportation. Michael offers more than 20 years of experience in the energy industry. Known for his excellence in business strategy and operations, Michael is a creative thinker and problem solver. He has a knack for developing client-centered solutions and generating a positive impact to the bottom line. Before assuming his current position, Michael served as General Manager of Business Excellence for Duke Energy. Prior to the merger with Progress Energy in 2012, Michael served as General Manager of Energy Supply Finance for Progress Energy. He has held several other leadership roles including Resource Planning Manager, Audit Manager, as well as roles in Generation Operations. Born in Colorado, Michael holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering, as well as Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Management Finance and Economics, from North Carolina State University. He was also distinguished with Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa honors. <ul> <li>Follow Michael Luhrs <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-luhrs-86230b17/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">on LinkedIn</a></li> </ul>   Connect With Smart Energy Decisions <ul> <li><a href="https://www.smartenergydecisions.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.smartenergydecisions.com/</a></li> <li>Follow them <a href="https://www.facebook.com/smartenergydecisions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">on Facebook</a></li> <li>Follow them <a href="https://twitter.com/SmartEnergy2020" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">on Twitter</a></li> <li>Follow them <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/checkpoint/challengesV2/AQH7GW5VbB-ClAAAAXNuUisSv9E62-3pDwNsTTwKB6u2vJFNKxwTDX33pdd7FSTvI-baTMhRQrq2q3yGniYXlMsr2YwWpcyoXw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> on LinkedIn</a></li> </ul>

Electrification of Transportation with Catherine Kummer and Michael Luhrs, Ep #12

As Senior Director of Green Innovation at NASCAR, Catherine directs development, adoption, and implementation of sustainability strategies across the number one spectator sport in the United States.  She integrates ESG initiatives across the industry with a program that in just under a decade has grown into one of the most visible sustainability programs in all of sports. Working with partners from the business sector, government and non-profit organizations, she also develops and coordinates programs with NASCAR sponsors and industry that advance sustainability objectives including food donation, recycling, clean water protection and the offsetting of carbon emissions for all of NASCAR's national series racing, employee air travel and quarterly partner summits. The Green Innovation platform provides both societal and business value, but also operates as a brand enhancing business. Catherine Joins Sustainable Nation to Discuss:  Sustainability in professional sports NASCAR's commitment to GHG, energy and waste reduction Advice and recommendations for sustainability leaders  Catherine's Final Five Question Responses: What is one piece of advice you would give other sustainability professionals that might help them in their careers? ​I would say be bold. That's commonly said, but I think it's important in sustainability. Be passionate, but be aware. And what I mean by being aware is ensure that you know who you're speaking to when you're speaking to them. Know your audience. When you're going in to pitch these ideas, know what drives them, what's going to result in them making an operational change or a culture change or whatever that may be. Just make sure that you're aware and you're humble in that approach. That is huge. I would also say that keeping the big picture in mind, always, has proven to be really helpful for me and taking one bite at a time. Do that well. Take that one bite. Make sure that you are crushing that one bite. Own it. Do your best to not spread yourself too thin because there's so much to be done, but identify where you can make the most impact and do it. ​What are you most excited about right now in the world of sustainability? ​Materials innovation, biomimicry, that all interests me a tremendously. More specifically though, how it can be advanced through sport. I'm excited to see how that rolls out. I'm excited to see how sport can be the catalyst for these new innovations, for these new technologies or these new mindsets, quite frankly. The opportunity to use sport to drive all of it. I think it's fascinating and I really feel like we're on the cusp of something so tremendous. The leagues are beginning to rally together. I worked directly with Omar Mitchell at the NHL and with Paul Hamlin at MLB, and those programs, they are doing amazing work as well. Coming together to look at how we can drive this impact, and we're so much more powerful if we all row in the same direction. I am probably most excited about how those relationships will continue to develop over time and what that will mean from an impact standpoint across the board when we look at these issues, whether it be social issues or environmental issues, economic issues, whatever that may be. That's really compelling and that's what gets me excited when I walk into this office everyday. What is one book you would recommend sustainability leaders read? I've thought about that one and actually spent probably more time than I should have looking at my bookcase. You can take it back to Silent Spring to know the foundation of why we're here. I think that is really, really important. Natural Capitalism, Hunter Lovins, and Amory's Reinventing Fire. I mean those are staples as well, but I gotta be honest. I find myself being more of a podcast person these days. So Greenbiz 350, How I Built This, not necessarily a sustainability podcast, but one that I just think from a business perspective is crazy inspiring for me. And then the Rachel Hollis podcast is one that I also listened to. As a female in the sports world, I think it's super important to continue to push yourself and inspire yourself and to surround yourself by other individuals like minded females specifically that are also doing the same thing. So yeah, this is probably the hardest question that you've asked me. I just have so many thoughts on things that folks should read and dive into. What are some of your favorite resources or tools that really help you in the work that you do? I've been fortunate to have a network of individuals that are just crazy knowledgeable in this space. I mentioned Allen Hershkowitz who has been a mentor for me for quite some time now. Joel Makower and the Greenbiz Executive Network, we are members of that organization. The Green Sports Alliance is doing tremendous work. Sport and Sustainability International is just kind of the global version of the Green Sports Alliance. Again, the networks that you have and learning from others that are also doing and have done this work for years and years and years. I find those to be the most valuable resources out there, and just taking the opportunity to stop and to listen and to learn and to be willing to take criticism and advice and suggestions, and raising your hand when you don't know because those networks are there to lift you up. That's been just a really amazing tool for me personally. Where can our listeners go to learn more about you and the work that you're leading at NASCAR? ​So my LinkedIn page has a plethora of different information on the program and work that I personally am doing outside of the organization that kind of tie back to overall sustainability efforts. You could also check out a NASCAR.com\green, which is the website for all things NASCAR green. And then follow us on the Twitter at NASCAR Green or feel free to give me a follow up at Catherine Kummer. I definitely do my best and fore warn you that you'll probably get pictures of my kids too.

As Senior Director of Green Innovation at NASCAR, Catherine directs development, adoption, and implementation of sustainability strategies across the number one spectator sport in the United States.  She integrates ESG initiatives across the industry with a program that in just under a decade has grown into one of the most visible sustainability programs in all of sports. Working with partners from the business sector, government and non-profit organizations, she also develops and coordinates programs with NASCAR sponsors and industry that advance sustainability objectives including food donation, recycling, clean water protection and the offsetting of carbon emissions for all of NASCAR's national series racing, employee air travel and quarterly partner summits. The Green Innovation platform provides both societal and business value, but also operates as a brand enhancing business. Catherine Joins Sustainable Nation to Discuss: <ul> <li>Sustainability in professional sports</li> <li>NASCAR's commitment to GHG, energy and waste reduction</li> <li>Advice and recommendations for sustainability leaders</li> </ul> Catherine's Final Five Question Responses: What is one piece of advice you would give other sustainability professionals that might help them in their careers? ​I would say be bold. That's commonly said, but I think it's important in sustainability. Be passionate, but be aware. And what I mean by being aware is ensure that you know who you're speaking to when you're speaking to them. Know your audience. When you're going in to pitch these ideas, know what drives them, what's going to result in them making an operational change or a culture change or whatever that may be. Just make sure that you're aware and you're humble in that approach. That is huge. I would also say that keeping the big picture in mind, always, has proven to be really helpful for me and taking one bite at a time. Do that well. Take that one bite. Make sure that you are crushing that one bite. Own it. Do your best to not spread yourself too thin because there's so much to be done, but identify where you can make the most impact and do it. ​What are you most excited about right now in the world of sustainability? ​Materials innovation, biomimicry, that all interests me a tremendously. More specifically though, how it can be advanced through sport. I'm excited to see how that rolls out. I'm excited to see how sport can be the catalyst for these new innovations, for these new technologies or these new mindsets, quite frankly. The opportunity to use sport to drive all of it. I think it's fascinating and I really feel like we're on the cusp of something so tremendous. The leagues are beginning to rally together. I worked directly with Omar Mitchell at the NHL and with Paul Hamlin at MLB, and those programs, they are doing amazing work as well. Coming together to look at how we can drive this impact, and we're so much more powerful if we all row in the same direction. I am probably most excited about how those relationships will continue to develop over time and what that will mean from an impact standpoint across the board when we look at these issues, whether it be social issues or environmental issues, economic issues, whatever that may be. That's really compelling and that's what gets me excited when I walk into this office everyday. What is one book you would recommend sustainability leaders read? I've thought about that one and actually spent probably more time than I should have looking at my bookcase. You can take it back to Silent Spring to know the foundation of why we're here. I think that is really, really important. Natural Capitalism, Hunter Lovins, and Amory's Reinventing Fire. I mean those are staples as well, but I gotta be honest. I find myself being more of a podcast person these days. So Greenbiz 350, How I Built This, not necessarily a sustainability podcast, but one that I just think from a business perspective is crazy inspiring for me. And then the Rachel Hollis podcast is one that I also listened to. As a female in the sports world, I think it's super important to continue to push yourself and inspire yourself and to surround yourself by other individuals like minded females specifically that are also doing the same thing. So yeah, this is probably the hardest question that you've asked me. I just have so many thoughts on things that folks should read and dive into. What are some of your favorite resources or tools that really help you in the work that you do? I've been fortunate to have a network of individuals that are just crazy knowledgeable in this space. I mentioned Allen Hershkowitz who has been a mentor for me for quite some time now. Joel Makower and the <a>Greenbiz Executive Network</a>, we are members of that organization. The <a>Green Sports Alliance</a> is doing tremendous work. <a>Sport and Sustainability International</a> is just kind of the global version of the Green Sports Alliance. Again, the networks that you have and learning from others that are also doing and have done this work for years and years and years. I find those to be the most valuable resources out there, and just taking the opportunity to stop and to listen and to learn and to be willing to take criticism and advice and suggestions, and raising your hand when you don't know because those networks are there to lift you up. That's been just a really amazing tool for me personally. Where can our listeners go to learn more about you and the work that you're leading at NASCAR? ​So my <a>LinkedIn page</a> has a plethora of different information on the program and work that I personally am doing outside of the organization that kind of tie back to overall sustainability efforts. You could also check out a <a>NASCAR.com\green</a>, which is the website for all things NASCAR green. And then follow us on the <a>Twitter at NASCAR Green</a> or feel free to give me a follow up at Catherine Kummer. I definitely do my best and fore warn you that you'll probably get pictures of my kids too.

Catherine Kummer - Senior Director for Green Innovation at NASCAR