Time | Program

8:00-9:00 AM | Networking Coffee and Pastries

9:00-9:05 AM | Welcome Address

As we navigate the critical path to 2030, John Boesel will deliver welcoming remarks at the California Summit, emphasizing CALSTART’s unwavering commitment to bold action, innovation, and collaboration. He will highlight California’s leadership and resilience in pursuing ambitious climate goals, even as federal priorities shift away from clean transportation policies.

9:05-9:25 AM | Keynote Speaker

9:25-9:40 AM | Networking Break

9:40-10:25 AM | Panel: Powering Progress Tackling Energization Challenges for Fleet Infrastructure

This panel will explore innovative strategies to accelerate energization timelines and streamline utility processes. Industry leaders and experts will discuss how to enhance collaboration between fleets, utilities, and policymakers, enabling proactive investments and scalable energy solutions. Key topics include optimizing utility efficiency, implementing bottom-up planning approaches, and designing flexible service connection models that meet the unique needs of fleet operators.

10:25-10:40 AM | Networking Break

10:40-11:20 AM | Panel: Leading the Charge: California Agency Leaders on the Path to 2030 and Beyond

Join key leaders from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), California Energy Commission (CEC), California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), and the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) for a forward-looking discussion on California’s ambitious climate and clean energy goals. This lightning round will delve into the policies, programs, and collaborative efforts driving the state toward 2030 and beyond, focusing on achieving carbon neutrality, advancing zero-emission technologies and incentives, and fostering economic growth through sustainable innovation. Attendees will gain unique insights into agency priorities, challenges, and opportunities shaping California’s clean energy future.

11:20-11:40 AM | CALSTART KEYNOTE

11:40-1:00 PM | Lunch

1:00-1:45 PM | Break Out Rooms

• Break Out Room 1: Driving Innovation in Transit: Supporting a Competitive and Resilient Market
  • The transit industry faces unique challenges as the market evolves, including attrition in original equipment manufacturers (OEM). This panel will explore how targeted policies and incentives can bolster competition, drive technological advancements, and ensure a thriving, modern transit ecosystem. Experts will discuss strategies to address market gaps, support emerging players, and strengthen the industry’s ability to adapt to changing demands while meeting sustainability and equity goals.
• Break Out Room 2: Powering the Future: Unlocking the Potential of Next-Generation Batteries
  • This panel will delve into the transformative potential of next-generation battery technologies and their role in shaping the future of transportation and energy storage. Experts will discuss key challenges and opportunities, including advancements in battery chemistry, scaling production, and enhancing performance and sustainability. The discussion will also highlight the critical role of government policy and investment in driving innovation and deployment, along with the profound implications for the electric vehicle market and broader clean energy goals.
• Break Out Room 3: Charting a Cleaner Course: Advancing Zero-Emission Technology at California Ports
  • California’s ports are at the forefront of the zero-emission transition, driving innovation to decarbonize operations across trucks, maritime vessels, and off-road equipment. This panel will explore the groundbreaking initiatives at the Ports of Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Oakland, highlighting the importance of port-specific policies, incentives, and partnerships to support fleets in adopting zero-emission technologies. Attendees will gain insights into the strategies and collaborative efforts transforming these critical hubs into global leaders in sustainable port operations.

1:45-2:00 PM | Networking Break

2:00-2:45 | PM Break Out Rooms

• Break Out Room 1: Unlocking the Infrastructure Challenge: Charging and Hydrogen Refueling Solutions for Commercial Vehicles
  • This panel will discuss the challenge around infrastructure and explore solutions for both battery-electric and hydrogen trucks. The discussion will focus on how to accelerate it, highlighting innovative ways and ideal partnerships to expand access to reliable infrastructure.
• Breakout Room 2: Building the Workforce for a Zero-Emission Future
  • The clean transportation revolution requires a skilled workforce. This session will discuss workforce development programs, diversity and inclusion in clean energy jobs, and the skills needed to support EV and hydrogen technology deployment.
• Break Out Room 3: Financing and Insurance for Zero-Emission Commercial Vehicles
  • Achieving widespread adoption of zero-emission transportation requires not only technological advancements but also innovative strategies to derisk lower-cost financing and insurance. This panel will showcase industry-leading insights from CALSTART and its member companies to understand and mitigate critical financing risks such as residual values, cost of insurance, and the potential for component resale for second-life applications.

2:45-3:00 PM | Networking Coffee Break

3:00-3:45 PM | A Shot at Gold: Preparing to Shine on the World Stage at the Olympics

As California gears up to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, the state faces unique logistical and transportation challenges. This panel will explore innovative mobility solutions and sustainable transit strategies to address these hurdles while showcasing California’s leadership in clean and efficient transportation. Experts will discuss how visionary planning and collaboration can transform this global event into a showcase for cutting-edge infrastructure, setting a benchmark for future large-scale events.

3:45-4:00 PM | Networking Break

4:00-4:20 PM | Keynote Speaker: Assemblymember Lori Wilson

4:30 PM | Reception with Award Ceremony Sponsored by SCE

6:30 PM | End of Summit