With Great Power
Turning school buses into a VPP
Jan 7, 2025
Rudy Halbright, expert product manager at PG&E, shares his insights on turning electric school buses into a virtual power plant. He discusses the challenges and innovations involved in implementing an all-electric fleet in Oakland, including partnerships between school districts and utilities. Rudy delves into advanced charging solutions and the complexities of energy cost modeling, emphasizing the economic implications of vehicle-to-grid technologies. His passion for sustainability shines through as he navigates the hurdles of energy innovation.
22:52
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Quick takeaways
- The implementation of vehicle-to-grid technology in electric school buses not only promotes grid stability but also aligns with decarbonization goals.
- Rudy highlights the importance of education, collaboration, and understanding dynamic pricing to overcome obstacles in electrification initiatives.
Deep dives
Rudy's Journey to Electrification
Rudy Halbright's path to the field of electrification began with a unique science fair project in fifth grade, where he explored solar water heating concepts. His initial ambition faced challenges due to the lack of accessible materials, leading to a setback but planting the seed of interest in renewable energy. After a successful career in IT, which he described as unfulfilling, Rudy transitioned to professional photography before finally returning to his roots in clean energy. Earning an MBA that focused on renewable energy paved the way for his current role as an electric vehicle charging consultant, combining his interests in technology and energy.
