Initiative for Resiliency in Energy through Vehicles (iREV)

The Initiative for Resiliency in Energy through Vehicles (iREV), a project led by the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), brings together emergency management, energy security, and transportation experts to support the incorporation of alternative fuel vehicles in emergency response and preparedness operations. iREV’s resources and technical assistance aid emergency management entities in examining the costs, benefits, and interdependencies associated with diversifying local fleets, reducing dependence on petroleum, and investing in alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructure in support of energy security.

In calendar year 2017, the State of Tennessee participated as an iREV pilot partner. As part of this process, OEP staff coordinated with NASEO to:

• Identify relevant emergency operations plans and energy security plans, and understand local emergency management policy and operations;
• Review emergency operations and energy security plans and identify ways that the plans could incorporate one or more alternative fuels;
• Work with the local Clean Cities Coalitions and fleet managers to identify the locations of alternative fuel vehicles and stations within the participating jurisdiction, and upload this information into the iREV-Tracking Tool; and
• Work to develop a “Policy and Planning Toolkit,” to include a summary of findings and recommended steps Tennessee can take to incorporate alternative fuels into future plans.

The final iREV Policy and Planning Toolkit for the State of Tennessee may be accessed here.

Following the completion of the iREV pilot project, OEP staff members continue to:

• Assist Clean Cities Coalitions in building a database of alternative fuel fleets and users, purveyors, and distributors, as well as owners of refueling assets and/or fuel storage centers. This database will log contact and asset information for each alternative fuel entity, allowing OEP and TEMA to enlist aid quickly and strategically when petroleum supply or distribution interruptions occur.
• Work with TEMA and the Clean Cities Coalitions to establish roles, responsibilities, and a formal protocol for enlisting alternative fuel vehicle and fleets into emergency service.
• Coordinate outreach and education on the iREV project to local emergency managers with assistance from TEMA.
• Assist Clean Cities Coalitions and the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) in scheduling and publicizing first responder trainings in Tennessee on the proper procedures for safely addressing incidents involving natural gas, propane autogas, electric drive, ethanol, and biodiesel powered vehicles.