Rachael Aptowitz
Senior Program ManagerGRID Alternatives
Rachael Aptowitz is a Senior Program Manager at GRID Alternatives, the nation’s largest nonprofit clean energy installer. With a passion for environmental justice, Rachael leads the development of innovative programs aimed at providing low-cost public and multifamily EV charging solutions in marginalized communities nationwide. Before joining GRID, Rachael led NYSERDA’s Scale For ClimateTech program. She propelled climate tech hardware startups to market success, and drove impactful reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Rachael's career in clean technology began as an engineer at General Motors. With a diverse background spanning vehicle development, manufacturing, and design, she contributed significantly to the integration process of the Cadillac Lyriq, the brand’s pioneering entry into the EV market. She is pursuing an MS in Sustainability from CCNY and holds a SB in Mechanical Engineering from MIT.
Rachael Aptowitz’s Session(s):
12:15 pm–12:55 pm | Thu, March 27, 2025
Considerations for Equitable EV Charging Infrastructure Deployment
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates, ensuring equitable access to charging infrastructure has become essential. This session will explore strategies for deploying EV charging stations in a way that prioritizes community needs and supports broader accessibility. Attendees will learn the importance of community engagement and education to address diverse needs, with insights into how ongoing outreach with stakeholders and local organizations can help shape projects that genuinely serve all groups. We’ll discuss how to use equity data effectively to identify disparities in access and pinpoint where charging infrastructure is most needed. Additionally, the session will cover critical factors in assessing the viability of EV charging sites—such as affordability, accessibility, reliability, location, and safety—to ensure that these investments yield sustainable, equitable outcomes for all.