Leading with innovative solutions, Utah is uniquely positioned to deploy an electrified transportation system. The state’s diverse climates and elevations — ranging from hot deserts to high alpine terrain — present year-round challenges, including extreme weather conditions.
Additionally, Utah’s rural communities are spread across vast open spaces, agricultural lands — with scenic mountain valleys and basins — requiring cutting-edge connectivity solutions. Meanwhile, the urban corridor’s ideal size in both geography and population makes it a perfect proving ground for a comprehensive electrified transportation system that can be scaled to smaller and larger urban areas nationwide and globally.
Our Priorities
The Utah Intelligent Electrified Transportation Action Plan, established in 2023 by SB125, is a living document and planning process. It is and will continue to be designed to identify market-driven electrification projects with scaled integration.
As specified by Utah Code 53B-18-1805 and 53B-18-1806, the process incorporates the following priorities:
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- Simultaneously manage stakeholder interests while building an electrified transportation system (ETS) informed by the needs of Utah’s citizens.
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- Use a community-centric, research-informed approach that balances data with community needs and perspectives.
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- Build awareness among stakeholders, industry partners, state and federal agencies, and local communities of Utah’s progress in leading the nation as we electrify our transportation system.
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- Attract new industry partners and federal investors to the state. Their collaboration in design, development, and delivery of these systems is crucial to implementation.
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- Focus on 10-, 20-, and 30-year horizons that guide development of the system and programming of funds for its implementation.
Innovation & Collaboration
With strong support from the state legislature, Utah has become a hub for public and private entities that are revolutionizing transportation electrification. These entities are developing technologies that are integral to the action plan, with Utah’s thriving tech industry fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. This environment is attracting top talent and investment to the state, further solidifying Utah’s leadership in this transformative effort.
Preparing a Dynamic Workforce
A dynamic workforce with transferable skills is another cornerstone of the plan’s success. The state’s strong emphasis on education ensures a steady pipeline of skilled professionals ready to tackle emerging technological challenges. Trade associations, universities, and technical colleges across Utah offer programs specifically tailored to the tech and engineering sectors, cultivating a knowledgeable and adaptable workforce that is well-equipped to support the state’s ambitious electrification goals.
Addressing Key Gaps
Building on Utah’s legacy of working together, this planning effort recognizes where gaps may exist that are in the process of being properly identified and addressed. The following areas have been identified since the Action Plan’s launch:
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- Energy infrastructure
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- Smart mobility systems
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- Integrated charging systems
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- Private and public transportation
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- Air transportation
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- Off-road vehicles & equipment
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- Consumer awareness materials
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- Workforce development
Paving the Way in Electrified Transportation
By focusing on these areas and tailoring recommendations to regional needs, Utah is well-prepared to advance the state’s ambitious electrification goals. With robust state and federal support, a culture of innovation, and a skilled workforce, Utah is leading the nation in pioneering intelligent electrified transportation solutions.
Explore our journey toward a cleaner, more efficient future through detailed sections on the Ideal Electrified Transportation System, our key accomplishments, upcoming events and milestones, and the 2024 Annual Report.
Together, we’re paving the way for a smarter, more sustainable Utah.