Duke Energy has commissioned a new electrification center for electric fleet vehicles in Mount Holly, North Carolina. The Duke Energy + Electrada Fleet Mobility Microgrid project is intended to serve a dual purpose as a model for utility-grade, reliable fleet electrification, and as an active charging site for light-, medium- and heavy-duty electric fleet vehicles.

Duke Energy and Electrada are prepared to help commercial fleets design, deploy and manage a reliable and customized electric fleet depot solution. Vehicles can either be connected to the Duke Energy grid, or powered by 100% carbon-free resources through the on-site microgrid.

“As companies with sustainability goals seek new ways to decarbonize their operations, vehicle fleets have increasingly become a top focus,” said Harry Sideris, President of Duke Energy. “The Duke Energy + Electrada Fleet Mobility Microgrid is open and ready to help with opportunities for cost savings, new charging options for zero-emission vehicles and strategic guidance.”

Electrada, an electric fuel solutions company, provides all required capital “behind the meter” on behalf of fleet owners. The company delivers charging for fleet EVs through a performance contract, reducing the risk associated with capital investments in EV charging infrastructure. “Electrada’s investment on the depot side complements Duke’s focus on distribution system performance to support the predictable addition of electric load over time.”

“While fleet electrification in Europe and Asia has taken hold, this critical mobility microgrid effort in partnership with Duke Energy will help address those electrical and performance issues unique to North America that challenge commercial adoption today,” said Kevin Kushman, CEO of Electrada. “This collaboration proves that electric mobility at scale is compatible with reliable and renewable grid service, and will build trust in fleets who are ready to embrace the transition.”

The new facility includes six fleet charging stations ranging in power from 120 to 300 kW, along with two Level 2 chargers. The Mount Holly microgrid includes solar, battery storage, hydrogen and other types of generation. The project allows stakeholders to test and validate software, vehicle and microgrid interoperability.

Daimler Truck North America will join Duke and Electrada as a founding participant in the fleet EV charging program. One of DTNA’s largest East Coast manufacturing facilities is located directly adjacent to the center.

“Our collaboration with Duke and Electrada goes beyond infrastructure development—it’s about creating a sustainable, scalable fleet electrification solution,” said Jeff Allen, Senior VP of Operations and Specialty Vehicles at DTNA. “By providing seamless, carbon-free charging, the Fleet Mobility Microgrid enables our inbound logistics partners to operate with minimal environmental impact.”

Source: Duke Energy