Authored by Daniel Gonzalez, Associate

CTE recently hosted its highly anticipated Zero-Emission Transportation Policy Summit on June 21st and 22nd in Washington, D.C. The event brought together CTE's esteemed members, Board of Directors, Policy Board, and dedicated staff for an immersive experience filled with insights from industry experts and engaging discussions with Congressional and federal staff.

The summit commenced with a networking reception held at Rayburn House Office Building, providing an exclusive opportunity for attendees to connect and exchange ideas on the future of zero-emission transportation. One of the many topics of discussion between CTE's Members and Congressional staff surrounded the recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Bill, and ideas on how airports can benefit from a comprehensive zero-emission transition plan. Another major topic included how transit and bus sectors can benefit further from Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding.

After the reception, CTE Leadership Circle Members welcomed the Honorable Peter DeFazio to CTE's Policy Board with an exclusive networking dinner. Congressman DeFazio, who served as Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure during the 116th and 117th Congress, shared his invaluable perspectives on CTE's role as a catalyst for clean transportation technologies.

The Policy Summit's second day kicked off with an engaging Industry Executive Roundtable panel. Esteemed leaders from Air Products, BAE Systems, Hyundai, Jacobs, Plug Power, and Proterra discussed the industry's commercialization barriers and the pivotal role of public policy programs in driving the adoption of zero-emission buses, trucks, and infrastructure. The panel explored essential topics, including the current state of zero-emission technology, the interplay between battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell solutions, and the effective implementation of programs and funding derived from the IIJA and IRA.

After the industry panel, the Honorable Rick Larsen, top Democrat on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, addressed CTE members to provide valuable insights into the momentum generated by the IIJA and IRA, ongoing FAA Reauthorization efforts, and his vision for future zero-emission transportation legislation. "CTE's advocacy work helps make the case that IRA and IIJA funding is needed," said Representative Larsen.

The summit concluded with a panel featuring senior congressional staff, including Homer Carlisle from the Senate Committee in Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and Jackie Schmitz from the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Moderated by CTE's Executive Director, Dan Raudebaugh, and CTE's Government Affairs Representative, Suzanne Sullivan, the panel allowed attendees to gain crucial insights into the respective Committee's legislative expectations for 2023 and critical discussion on the current state of zero-emission programs.

The Zero-Emission Transportation Policy Summit continues to be a pivotal advantage for CTE Members, granting exclusive avenues to influence and shape policy solutions in zero-emission transportation. The event's success has set the stage for continued progress in 2023 and beyond. Together, we will drive the transformation towards a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future.