How my EV survived the cold

👋 Hello and welcome to Energy News Weekly!

The cold spell that swept the U.S. last week brought surprise snow and cold to states that don’t usually see it, but it wasn’t exactly a winter wonderland for many electric vehicle drivers.

Freezing temperatures decreased EV battery ranges and reduced charger speeds, leading to long waits at some public chargers — and a whole bunch of headlines. The problem came to a head in Chicago, where temperatures well below zero led to hours-long waits at Tesla Supercharger stations.

I live in Buffalo, New York, and took my Subaru Solterra out in some chilly temperatures over the past few weeks, including to a nearby ski hill and a snow-buried Buffalo Bills game. I got everywhere I needed to be without trouble, though I did turn off my car’s heat at times to conserve my battery range and took some slower but shorter-mileage routes. And while there wasn’t a line at my closest Level 3 charger, I only got a few miles of range while charging as I grocery shopped.

Experts say small trip modifications like those, plus a little patience and prior planning, can keep EV drivers out of cold-weather potholes.

Did you have any trouble charging or driving an EV in the recent cold, or has it been smooth sailing? Let us know by replying to this email.

More clean energy news

🌨️ Keeping the lights on: A top federal energy regulator says the recent wave of winter storms highlights the need for ​“equitable and forward-thinking transmission solutions” that ensure power plants and lines keep working in bad weather. (Utility Dive)

🌞 The Pentagon goes solar: The U.S. military will install rooftop solar panels on the Pentagon as part of a $250 million package to reduce emissions from federal buildings. (Associated Press) 

🚛 Eastbound and electric: While few medium- and heavy-duty truck drivers are piloting electric models, many who do love their smooth handling and a lack of noise and fumes. (Washington Post)

☢️ Nuclear options: Despite growing public and governmental support for nuclear power, industry experts say it’s unclear when the next U.S. reactor may come online. (Canary Media)

🤫 Greenhushing: After rising greenwashing allegations, many companies are now keeping their climate work quiet, potentially decreasing pressure on big emitters to change their ways. (Grist)

🏗️ Cleaning up cement: Cement and concrete decarbonization startups partner to push for policies promoting low-carbon construction practices and products. (Canary Media)

🚢 Methane contradictions: Climate advocates say planned liquefied natural gas export terminals contradict the Biden administration’s promised efforts to crack down on methane emissions. (Canary Media)

📢 We want to hear from you! Send us your questions, comments, and story tips by replying to this email.

💸 Support our work: The Energy News Network is powered by support from readers like you. If you like Energy News Weekly, share it with a friend! Or give today and help us keep our news open and accessible for all.

📧 Want more energy news? Sign up for our daily digests.