October 2026 Edition

Antoine M. Thompson

CEO/Executive Director

GWRCCC

To Our GWRCCC Family,

Happy National Drive Electric Month! October is always a pivotal time for our coalition as we celebrate the incredible progress being made in clean transportation and re-commit ourselves to the work that lies ahead.

Transitioning our fleets, transit systems, and personal vehicles to low- and zero-emission technologies is not just an environmental ambition—it is a public health imperative. Every zero-emission bus on the road, every electric vehicle added to a municipal or commercial fleet, and every clean fuel pilot we launch directly reduces harmful greenhouse gas emissions and particulate matter in our region. By driving clean, we are improving air quality, lowering public health risks, and creating more resilient, equitable communities across the Greater Washington region.

This October please mark your calendars for our flagship event of the year: the 2026 GWRCCC Clean Energy & Transportation Conference & Expo on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, Maryland. This year’s theme centers on actionable solutions for stakeholders in the community, public and private sectors. We will continue to move onward to improve our environment one vehicle, one step and one action at a time .

• Register at www.gwrccc.org/annual-conference or  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gwrccc-2026-clean-energy-and-transportation-annual-conference-tickets-1990646754028?aff=oddtdtcreator

I also want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of our 2026 Award Recipients! Your leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to advancing clean energy and sustainable transit in the DMV serve as a beacon for the entire industry. We look forward to honoring your achievements publicly during our awards ceremony at the conference.

Finally, as we mark a major milestone in our coalition's history, I invite each of you to help us build a sustainable future. In honor of our 15th anniversary, we have officially launched the GWRCCC "Powering 15" Campaign. Whether through corporate sponsorships, individual contributions, or community partnerships, your support directly funds critical initiatives like our Ron Flowers Future Scholarship and local workforce development programs.

• Support the "Powering 15" Campaign Today at www.gwrccc.org/donations

Thank you for your continued partnership, leadership, and dedication to a cleaner, greener Greater Washington region. I look forward to seeing you on October 22nd!

In partnership and sustainability,

Antoine M. Thompson 

CEO, GWRCCC

September Recap

Our CEO and Executive Director, Antoine M. Thompson, had the opportunity to engage with students from across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia at the Next Gen Climate Conference on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

During the conference, Antoine spoke about the importance of advocacy, community engagement, and youth leadership in advancing meaningful environmental and climate solutions. The voices and leadership of the next generation are essential to protecting our planet and building a more sustainable future.

Thank you to the D.C. Office of the People’s Counsel for the invitation and for creating opportunities to empower the next generation of environmental leaders.

GWRCCC’s recent Job Fair was a great success, bringing together employers, job seekers, and community members for an afternoon of networking, career opportunities, and meaningful connections.

We sincerely thank all of the participating employers and attendees who helped make the event possible. A special thank you goes to Nourish Now for its generous food donation, which was a big hit with attendees. We were also grateful to extend that generosity by sharing the remaining food with underserved members of our community.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the Job Fair both a successful workforce development event and an opportunity to give back.

Congratulations to Antoine M. Thompson, CEO & Executive Director of GWRCCC, who received the Small Business Advocate Award from WETATi Academy on Saturday September 12. This recognition highlights his continued commitment to supporting small businesses, strengthening community partnerships, and advancing opportunities for organizations and entrepreneurs across the region.



GWRCCC is proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and Antoine’s continued leadership and service.

On Wednesday, September 9, area leaders, public officials, and partners gathered at 777 North Capitol Street NE to celebrate the grand reopening of the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) headquarters.

District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser joined current and former elected leaders—including COG Board Chair Reuben Collins and Executive Director Clark Mercer—for a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the newly renovated, tech-forward space. The modernized facility reflects COG’s continued commitment to the vibrant NoMa neighborhood, where it has been rooted since 1990, while providing an updated hub for collaboration across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

Following the celebration, the COG Board of Directors convened for its monthly meeting to focus on pressing regional environmental priorities:

Regional Climate Goals: Members reviewed the status of local greenhouse gas reduction efforts as metropolitan Washington works toward its target of cutting emissions 50% below 2005 levels by 2030.

Addressing "Forever Chemicals":

Experts and board members discussed the impact of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on the local water cycle. The briefing detailed potential regulatory and legislative steps to mitigate these persistent compounds in regional water systems.

The Clean Cities and Communities Annual National Workshop brought together representatives from more than 75 regional coalitions in Kansas City, Missouri, in early September 2026.

The workshop provided an opportunity for coalition leaders and partners to share best practices, celebrate progress across the national network, and explore strategies for advancing cleaner transportation. Sessions focused on topics including EV charging infrastructure, renewable and alternative fuels, fleet sustainability, and total cost of ownership.



GWRCCC was proud to be part of this national collaboration and continued exchange of ideas supporting cleaner, more efficient transportation across communities.

Thank you to everyone who joined EVNoire and the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) for the 2026 Annual CBC Reception on Clean Mobility & Energy.

The evening brought together advocates, policymakers, community leaders, and industry professionals for meaningful conversations around clean mobility, energy, and a more equitable transportation future. We were also proud to recognize our 2026 honorees for their leadership, service, and continued contributions to e-mobility and environmental justice.

Thank you to our partners, honorees, speakers, and attendees for helping make the reception a successful and impactful evening.

News Updates

⚡ Powering 15: Celebrating 15 Years of Impact



GWRCCC is celebrating 15 years of advancing clean energy and transportation solutions across the Greater Washington region with our Powering 15 anniversary fundraising campaign! From September 1 through December 4, 2026, we invite our members, partners, supporters, and community to help us invest in the next 15 years of progress. Whether you give $15, $150, $1,500, $15,000, or $150,000, every contribution helps power GWRCCC’s continued work toward a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future.

Join us in Powering 15!

Tee Off for the Ron Flowers Future Green Leaders Program

Join GWRCCC for the 2026 Ron Flowers Annual Golf Outing on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at the University of Maryland Golf Course.

This annual event brings together supporters, partners, and community leaders for a day of golf, networking, and giving back. Proceeds from the tournament support the Ron Flowers Future Green Leaders Program and scholarship fund, helping invest in the next generation of environmental and clean transportation leaders.



Whether you participate as a golfer, sponsor, or supporter, your involvement helps strengthen opportunities for students and future professionals in the clean energy and transportation sector.

Call us Today at 202-671-1580 or email us at info@gwrccc.org

2026 Annual

Clean Energy & Transportation Conference

The countdown is on for the 2026 GWRCCC Clean Energy & Transportation Annual Conference, Expo & Awards Luncheon, taking place Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt, Maryland. This year’s conference celebrates 15 years of GWRCCC advancing clean transportation, sustainable energy, and community partnerships throughout the Greater Washington region.

The Awards Luncheon will feature remarks from:

Emmett Jordan

Mayor of Greenbelt, Maryland

Ron Flowers

Executive Director Emeritus, GWRCCC

Pamela Janifer

Mayor of District Heights, Maryland

Kendra Patterson

Regional Fleet Sales Manager, Eastern & Southern Region

Volkswagen of America

Hear from leaders representing government, transportation, community engagement, and the clean-energy industry as we celebrate the progress of our region and look toward its future.

2026 Awardees

A huge congratulations to this year’s award recipients! We are deeply grateful for your outstanding contributions and relentless dedication to advancing clean energy and sustainable transportation across our region. Your vision and hard work continue to drive our mission forward. Thank you for leading the charge toward a cleaner, greener future!

Al Carr, Amy Posner, Bill Lehner, Burl Haigwood, Cyrus Mokhtari, Steve McCoy, Electrify Equity, ETHERO Truck and Energy, Green & Healthy Homes Initiative, Prince George’s Community College Workforce Development Program, DC Department of Public Works, Prince George’s County Department of Public Works & Transportation, and WUSA 9.



Our CEO & Chair Award honorees include Amber Perry, Burl Haigwood, Gyasi Gomez, James Dankowski, Katherine Magruder, Paul Winters, Rev. George Gilbert, and Tracey Thompson.

Partnership & Showcase Opportunities

Maximize your organization's visibility in front of hundreds of industry leaders, government officials, and fleet managers:

Thank you for being an essential part of our 15-year journey toward a cleaner, greener future. We can't wait to celebrate this milestone with you!

Stay at the forefront of the green transition by joining us for our September Industry Meeting. This monthly gathering is a vital hub for local leaders to share the latest updates on clean energy, environmental policy, and transportation innovation. Attendees will gain exclusive insights into new funding opportunities, business developments, and emerging career pathways within the region.

• When: Thursday, october 8, 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM EDT
• Where: Virtual (Eventbrite)
• Cost: Free for members and partners

Maryland Expands EV Infrastructure with 5 New Fast-Charging Projects

Maryland is taking another big step toward greener transportation! The Maryland Department of Transportation recently conditionally awarded $3.7 million in federal NEVI funding for five new public EV fast-charging projects. Located across Baltimore, Charles, Frederick, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties, these projects will add 24 new fast-charging ports by late 2028. Partnering with providers like Tesla, ElectraStop, and Universal EV, the state aims to close charging gaps along major travel corridors to support Maryland's 158,000+ registered EV drivers.

Read the full story on Baltimore Fishbowl →

2026 Career Connect Expo

The Alexandria/Arlington Regional Workforce Council is hosting the 2026 Career Connect Expo on Thursday, October 8, from 11:30 AM–1:30 PM at Northern Virginia Community College’s Alexandria Campus.

The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) are partnering with the Alexandria/Arlington Regional Workforce Council to offer a dedicated Electric Vehicle & Sustainability Careers room connecting job seekers with employers and workforce training programs in this growing industry.

The Career Connect Expo will support former federal employees and contractors, NOVA/Alexandria students, and members of the general public seeking skilled professional opportunities.

Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026

Time: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM

Location: Northern Virginia Community College – Alexandria Campus, Fine Arts Building, 2nd Floor

Address: 3301 Netherton Drive, Alexandria, VA 22311

Parking: Free parking is available in the Student/Hourly Lots.

GWRCCC EV Resources List

Access GWRCCC’s EV Resources and Industry Reports

Deploying sustainable transportation requires data-driven strategies and trusted regional insights. The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) provides public and private stakeholders with specialized educational tools, technical resources, and strategic industry reports to assist in the regional transition to electric vehicles (EVs).

Featured Research: The Jumpstart Report

A central asset in GWRCCC's research portfolio is the Jumpstart Report.

• Objective: This initiative provides a blueprint for accelerating the deployment of EV charging infrastructure and biodiesel access at local fuel stations across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region.
• Impact: The report outlines critical infrastructure measures necessary to reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and expand fueling alternative equity.

Specialized EV Resources and Tools

GWRCCC curates a comprehensive suite of resources designed to guide municipal planners, commercial business owners, and regional fleets:

• Regional Deployment Guides: Access strategic policy frameworks, such as the EV Program Designs and Strategies to Enhance Equitable Deployment report, as well as clearinghouse assets from the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG).
• Incentive Tracking: Up-to-date data on federal, state, and regional tax credits, grants, and laws regarding consumer and commercial electric vehicles and corresponding infrastructure.
• Vendor & Contractor Directories: Direct connectivity to verified regional EV charging vendors, installation contractors, and advisory specialists to advance capital infrastructure projects.
• First Responder Safety Training: Specialized educational curriculum and safety resources from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office focused on alternative fuel vehicle management.

Active Programs and Regional Ecosystems

Through multi-state partnerships, GWRCCC supports hands-on initiatives that transition the region toward electrification:

• EMPOWER Workplace Charging: Tools and support frameworks helping diverse employers implement workplace EV charging options for employees.

Quick Links For More Information

Is Your Property’s EV Charging Station More of a Headache Than a Help?

Introducing the GWRCCC Charger Renewal Program Many early-generation EV chargers across the DMV are falling behind, leaving property managers stuck with slow vendor response times, high upkeep costs, or completely broken infrastructure.

To fix this, the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) has partnered with Poweral to launch the Charger Renewal Program. Eligible properties in DC, Maryland, and Virginia can upgrade their aging infrastructure to premium, fully managed charging hubs at a fraction of the price.

The Big Perk: 50% Off and $0 Ongoing Costs

• Save 50% Immediately: Receive 50% off the total project cost to replace your underperforming chargers. This program is funded directly via Poweral co-investment, meaning no complex federal or state grant applications are required.

• $0 Ongoing Maintenance Costs: Poweral handles 100% of the operation, maintenance, networking, and software updates.

• Earn Recurring Revenue: The property receives a steady, hands-off revenue share from the chargers.

What’s Included?

• Turnkey Equipment Swap: Safe removal and responsible disposal of your old equipment.

• Next-Gen Hardware: Brand new Level 2 stations equipped with universal connectors (J1772 and NACS/Tesla compatible).

• 24/7 Live Driver Support: A dedicated phone line is posted right on the charger so drivers reach a live agent, not your front desk.

• Smart Load Management: Maximizes power within your current electrical capacity, typically eliminating the need for expensive utility service upgrades.

Who Qualifies?

The program targets high-traffic commercial and institutional properties, including:

• Multifamily Communities: 75 or more units.
• Office and Municipal Buildings: 100 or more average daily vehicles.
• Public-Use Spaces: Hotels, retail centers, and parking garages.

Note (Qualification by Exception): If your property does not hit these exact numbers but you are currently operating an EV charger you are unhappy with due to poor reliability, outdated tech, or high costs, you are still highly encouraged to apply. Poweral reviews every site individually based on overall potential.

How to Apply (Simple 5-Step Process)

1. Submit a Request: Email chargerrenewal@poweral.com with your property name, address, property type, parking capacity, current charger brand/condition, and a primary contact. GWRCCC is copied for program tracking.
2. Initial Review: Poweral will assess your submission and reach out within three business days.
3. No-Cost Site Assessment: An on-site electrical and utilization assessment will be completed at zero cost to you.
4. Program Offer: Receive a transparent, written 30-day offer detailing the 50% cost reduction.
5. Installation and Go-Live: Poweral handles the physical swap and management while you start earning your revenue share.

Ready to refresh your property's charging experience? Get started by emailing chargerrenewal@poweral.com today.

EPA Opens 2026 DERA National Grant Funding

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has opened the 2026 Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) National Grant Program, with approximately $180 million in funding expected to be awarded for projects that reduce diesel emissions by upgrading, retrofitting, or replacing older diesel vehicles, engines, and equipment.

Eligible applicants generally include state and local agencies, municipalities, school districts, metropolitan planning organizations, port authorities, Tribal agencies, and qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects may involve buses, heavy-duty vehicles, locomotives, marine engines, and certain nonroad diesel equipment.

EPA will also host DERA National Program Overview webinars on October 13 and October 28, with an additional session on November 12.

Application Deadline: January 22, 2027 at 11:59 PM ET



Learn More & Apply →

Sustainable Maryland Action Grants Now Open

The Sustainable Maryland Action Grants Program is now accepting applications from Sustainable Maryland registered and certified municipalities. A total of $100,000 in grant funding is available to support local sustainability projects that protect natural resources, reduce carbon footprints, strengthen communities, and improve long-term quality of life.

Registered communities may apply for awards of up to $5,000, while certified communities may apply for awards of up to $20,000. Municipalities are also encouraged to collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions and nonprofit organizations on projects with broader regional benefits.

An informational webinar will be held on October 8 from 12:00–1:00 PM.

Application Deadline: November 13, 2026 at 11:59 PM

Significant Scholarship Funding for SEA’s Fall Program!

Are you or a student you know interested in climate change, coastal resilience, and hands-on marine education? Sea Education Association (SEA) has announced that significant scholarship funds—covering up to 100% of costs—are available for their upcoming Fall program: Climate Change and Coastal Resilience.

Program Overview:

• Dates: September 28 – December 20, 2026
• Locations: On-campus learning in Woods Hole, MA, followed by a sailing research expedition in the Caribbean (visiting St. Croix, Dominica, and St. Kitts and Nevis) aboard the SSV Corwith Cramer.
• Eligibility: Open to undergraduate students of all majors, as well as gap-year students (high school graduates who have delayed college entry).
• Financial Aid: Financial assistance is available to cover up to 100% of program costs. Students must complete both the program application and the financial aid application to be eligible.

Have Questions? Contact SEA alum Oliver Scott Price directly at oscottprice@sea.edu to learn more about the program or the student experience.

Please share this incredible opportunity with friends, colleagues, and prospective students in your network!

Use the link provided below to view DOEE's “open” grants, funding opportunities, and requests for applications and proposals (RFAs & RFPs) to fund various environmental projects. They appear with the most recent announced RFAs at the top. To view the list, click here.

For those items that are closed, please see the archives page.

The Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) manages grants, loans, rebates, and tax incentives designed to help attain Maryland's goals in energy use reduction, renewable energy promotion, climate action, and the creation of green jobs. Through the programs below, the agency helps Maryland residents, businesses, non-profits, and local governments implement energy efficiency upgrades and install renewable energy systems. View an alphabetical list of all of our programs here.

Becoming a GWRCCC Member has it’s perks!

For more information, go to the link below.

The impact of the Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC) is directly tied to the strength of its network. By joining or renewing your membership, you become part of a nationwide network of over 100 coalitions dedicated to advancing clean transportation, reducing emissions, and promoting environmental justice across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Whether you are a public fleet manager, a corporate sustainability director, an educator, or an individual advocate, GWRCCC provides the tools, resources, and community to help you succeed.

Key Benefits of Membership

• Funding and Grant Support: Access critical information and strategic resources for securing federal, state, and local funding, or request formal letters of support from GWRCCC for your project applications.
• Personalized Fleet Coaching: Receive expert guidance and technical assistance to help implement alternative fuels, improve fuel economy, and manage your organization's sustainable vehicle transition.
• Brand Visibility and Networking: Enhance your organization's reach with directory listings, newsletter features, and opportunities to host educational events or workshops.
• Policy and Advocacy Insights: Stay informed on public policy developments related to alternative fuels, clean energy, and environmental equity.
• Event Access and Discounts: Enjoy reduced registration rates for GWRCCC industry events, workshops, and regional conferences.

Find the Right Level for You

GWRCCC offers tailored membership tiers designed to support everyone from large corporations to local students:

• Corporate and Institutional Tiers (Gold, Silver, Business): Ideal for companies, government entities, and transit organizations looking to drive regional infrastructure deployment, gain board-level eligibility, and maximize corporate visibility.
• Citizen Advocate: Perfect for individuals who want to stay connected through exclusive subscriptions, special event invitations, and advocacy programming.
• Student and Youth Levels: Designed to support the next generation of environmental leaders with tailored job forums, educational workshops, and career development tools.

Support Clean, Equitable Transportation

Your dues directly support vital regional initiatives, including workforce development programs, public-private partnerships, and efforts to reduce pollution in underserved communities.

Take an active role in building a sustainable infrastructure for the DMV.

Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition

202-671-1580 | Info@GWRCCC.org | GWRCCC.org

Click here for membership information.

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