Local governments from across the Southeast convened in Orlando, Florida, this February for the second in-person ‘Electrify the South’ Collaborative, hosted by the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) and the Southeast Sustainability Directors Network (SSDN). This two-day event provided a vital forum for local government representatives to share solutions, exchange best practices, and strategize ways to leverage federal transportation electrification funding to accelerate clean energy transitions in their communities.

This year’s event brought together sustainability directors, city managers, elected officials, and fleet managers from across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Their shared mission is to identify and overcome challenges in adopting electric transportation and ensure their municipalities capture a proportional share of available federal investments for clean energy.

Even as we navigate uncertainty and work to ensure that promised funding is delivered, the momentum, relationships, and knowledge built through this process are invaluable. The ongoing work of local leaders to foster community partnerships demonstrates a prolonged, collaborative effort toward progress. While we remain steadfast in our commitment to secure critical resources, the connections and experiences exhibited through this event equip local leaders with the tools to advance clean transportation in their communities now and into the future.

“Overall, the conference was helpful in this time of uncertainty. We needed this boost of affirmation and confidence that we could still successfully accomplish our EV goals.” – Sheetal Almas, Adaptation and Energy Coordinator, City of Key West, FL

Collaboration in Action

The ‘Electrify the South’ Collaborative featured sessions on the evolving electric vehicle (EV) market, the evolving federal funding landscape, fleet electrification strategies, and collaborative utility partnerships. Participants engaged in peer-to-peer learning, discussed zoning and policy best practices and explored ways to align state-led funding programs with local needs.

“Attending the Electrify the South Collaborative EV conference was an invaluable experience. The event provided a unique opportunity to explore government-shared tools and resources that are essential for advancing electric vehicle adoption. It was inspiring to see how collaboration between government agencies, industry leaders, and advocates can drive innovation and overcome barriers to EV infrastructure. The insights and connections gained will undoubtedly influence future strategies as we continue working toward a more sustainable, electric future.” – Ashantae Green, Sustainability Manager, City of Jacksonville, FL

The event underscored the power of collective problem-solving. Participants exchanged phone numbers and business cards along with tips on how to work more collaboratively with utility partners. Through open dialogue and shared experiences, local leaders walked away with tangible strategies to overcome implementation hurdles and advance their community’s clean transportation goals.

Funding the Future

The opportunities presented by BIL and IRA are unprecedented. Yet, accessing these funds remains challenging for many municipalities, especially in light of the new administration’s attempt to create additional obstacles. Experts guided navigating the federal funding landscape, offering advice to ensure local governments are well-positioned to secure grants, tax incentives, and other financial mechanisms supporting electrification projects.

“Electrify the South Collaborative was very helpful in understanding the recent executive order and how it affects our work at the local government level.  It was extremely useful to hear from our local government associates that there are other approaches and strategies to fund our projects and still be able to achieve our clean energy/clean transportation goals.” – Sheetal Almas, Adaptation and Energy Coordinator, City of Key West, FL

Federal investments have already made a noticeable difference in the Southeast, with millions of dollars allocated for electric transit and school buses, charging infrastructure, and EV-related research. Through ‘Electrify the South,’ SACE aims to ensure these investments translate into on-the-ground success by fostering collaboration between municipalities and state agencies.

A Path Forward

Building on the momentum from this event, SACE and SSDN will continue to support local governments through virtual Collaborative meetings, technical assistance, and knowledge-sharing resources. Participants are encouraged to leverage their expanded networks to drive community progress.

“One powerful function of convening local governments for the ETS Collaborative in person is sharing the collective actions being taken to propel electric transportation forward. Another important aspect is it allows new, creative, and tangible solutions to be crafted together. It also helps build new relationships and foster existing ones in addition to our virtual meetings.” – Dory Larsen, Senior Electric Transportation Program Manager, SACE

While challenges remain, these leaders’ resilience and dedication ensure that progress continues, no matter the obstacles. The insights, relationships, and strategies gained at the Collaborative will have lasting impacts, helping communities advance toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. As the clean energy transition accelerates, the ‘Electrify the South’ Collaborative remains a cornerstone for empowering local governments to lead sustainable transportation. The dedication of these municipal leaders exemplifies the Clean Energy Generation movement in action—creating healthier, more resilient communities for generations to come.

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‘Electrify the South’ Collaborative 2025: Driving Change Through Local Leadership