Photo Credit: ChargePoint, Verdek's Partner for Calofornia Contract
Monroe, Connecticut – August 6, 2024 – Verdek, a leading provider of Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions, proudly announces that it has secured a 3-year contract with the State of California. This landmark achievement underscores Verdek's commitment to advancing sustainable transportation and reinforces its position as a trailblazer in the EV infrastructure industry.
Under this mandatory California Contract 1-23-61-15B, Verdek will supply the latest ChargePoint chargers, CP6000 and Express Plus, covering a vast range of charging from 9KW to 500KW to the State of California departments and local government agencies. This contract will support California's ambitious goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the conversion of its fleet from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to EVs.
"We are honored to have been selected for this pivotal project," said Guy Mannino, CEO of Verdek. "This contract not only highlights Verdek’s industry leadership and technical capabilities, but also aligns perfectly with our mission to accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions. We are excited to contribute to California's vision of a sustainable future.
Photo Credit: ChargePoint, Verdek's Partner for Calofornia Contract
About Verdek
With over a decade of experience in delivering state-of-the-art EV Charging Solutions, Verdek has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses, municipalities, and government entities nationwide. Verdek's expertise in integrating cutting-edge technology with user-centric design has consistently set new standards in the industry. A notable example of Verdek’s expertise is eBus charging in New York City. Verdek is a premier provider of Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions, committed to fostering the growth of sustainable transportation. With a comprehensive range of products and services, Verdek delivers innovative, reliable, and user-friendly charging solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers across North America.
For more information, please contact us at info@verdek.com or (888) 336-3734.
How Guy Mannino's leadership positioned Verdek at the forefront of the EV transition
A conversation with Guy Mannino the CEO of Verdek LLC, a pioneer of EV infrastructure
By Hasib Rashid
Photo: Verdek CEO Guy Mannino at Grand Ave. Depot in Maspeth, Queens, New York City
on the inaugural of the Electric Bus Charging Facility, May 14th, 2024
Our team had the opportunity to hear from one of the forerunners of EV infrastructure in the US, Guy Mannino. Considered a visionary leader in the field of sustainable transportation, with over three decades of experience in engineering, Mannino has dedicated his career to driving innovation in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. As the CEO of Verdek LLC, he has transformed the company into a pioneer of EV infrastructure, integrating renewable energy sources and setting new standards for sustainability. Mannino's passion for green technology and his relentless pursuit of a cleaner future have positioned him as a key figure in the ongoing EV revolution. Let's dive into the conversation.
Hasib Rashid: Welcome, Guy. It's great to have you with us today. Let's start from the beginning. Can you tell us about your journey into the electric vehicle (EV) industry?
Guy Mannino: Thank you for having me. My journey into the EV industry began long before it became the hot topic it is today. In 2008, when the cost of a barrel of oil was $100, the world thought the conversion to electric was going to be a natural solution. We started selling NEVs (Neighborhood Electric Vehicles) and made an agreement with Tazzari, an Italian NEV manufacturer, to import electric vehicles into the US. While driving NEVs with a limited range (30-50 miles), I used to carry a 50-foot extension cable for opportunity charging whenever possible. Once, I overloaded the electric circuit servicing the IT Department of a college in Georgia, tripping the breakers and shutting down the department temporarily. Quickly, I realized that charging was going to be critical.
Hasib Rashid: That’s fascinating. Can you share more about the early days of Verdek LLC and your vision for the company?
Guy Mannino: Absolutely. In those early days, I started looking for charging manufacturers and discovered a small company in Campbell, CA called Coulomb Technologies (which later changed its name to ChargePoint). The company had only seven people and was looking for partners. That's how our journey in the charging business started. Our first installation was in Houston in 2009 at City Hall. The station was a Level 1, and the vehicle was a Toyota Prius Hybrid converted to Plug-in Hybrid using an aftermarket kit. Initially, we were just selling chargers, but we quickly realized that customers were asking for a turnkey solution. We aligned with hundreds of partners around the country to offer turnkey installations.
Photo: Installing Chargers at Galveston, Texas, 2009
Hasib Rashid: How did you overcome the challenges in
those early days?
Guy Mannino: The early days were indeed challenging.
Building new infrastructure from the ground up requires a lot of innovation and
perseverance. One of our key strategies was forming strong partnerships. We
collaborated with forward-thinking companies and local governments that shared
our vision for a sustainable future. Additionally, we invested heavily in
research and development to stay ahead of technological advancements and ensure
our solutions were top-notch.
Hasib Rashid: Verdek has been instrumental in
integrating renewable energy into EV charging stations. Can you talk more about
this initiative?
Guy Mannino: Integrating renewable energy into our
charging stations is a core part of our mission. It’s not enough to just
promote electric vehicles; we also need to ensure their energy is sustainable.
By incorporating solar panels and other renewable sources into our charging
stations, we’re reducing the overall carbon footprint of EVs and promoting a
cleaner, greener future. This approach also helps to stabilize the grid and
support renewable energy integration.
Photo: Verdek EV Oasis 2.0 DC Fast Chargers to multiple New Mexico and Arizona locations for the US U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Verdek EV Oasis is our solution to provide DC
fast charging in any location where the infrastructure is adequate, and the
local utility company is not planning to provide the power service required.
Our first installation was in Middlegate Nevada, a small community located of
Highway 95 between Las Vegas and Reno. The closed NV Energy service was miles
away. Verdek designed EV Oasis using solar power and battery storage to power a
120KW DC fast charger. Verdek then developed EV Oasis 2.0 adding mobility to the
system and increasing the storage capacity to power 300KW of DC fast chargers.
These units are not in operation at Custom Border Protection sites along the US
border with Mexico.
Hasib Rashid: Looking at the present, what are some of the major milestones Verdek LLC has achieved under your leadership?
Guy Mannino: I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved at Verdek. From that initial installation in Houston, we have grown with the industry, progressing to Level 2 and Level 3 chargers. The market is also spreading quickly from the consumer market to the commercial market, especially in the “Last Mile Delivery Vans.” Public transportation is rapidly converting to electric as well, including trucks up to Class 8. We’ve installed thousands of charging stations across the country, partnered with major businesses and municipalities, and played a key role in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles. One of our standout projects was the development of ultra-fast charging stations, which can recharge an EV in just minutes. This has been a game-changer for long-distance travel and has made EVs more practical for everyday use.
Hasib Rashid: That’s impressive. What are your thoughts on the future of EV infrastructure and the role Verdek will play?
Guy Mannino: The future of EV infrastructure is incredibly exciting. The number of charging stations in the US is poised to grow from about 4 million today to an estimated 35 million in 2030. The electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) market could grow from $7 billion today to $100 billion by 2040 at a 15% compound annual growth rate. We’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible. At Verdek, we’re exploring innovative technologies like vehicle-to-grid (V2G), which allows EVs to not only draw power from the grid but also supply it back. This could be crucial for stabilizing the power grid and supporting renewable energy. Looking ahead, I believe Verdek will continue to lead the change in EV infrastructure, driving innovation and setting new standards for sustainability. However, we also see headwinds due to the real threat that EVs are creating in the market.
Photo: Installed 17 state-of-the-art ABB pantograph chargers at the Grand Avenue Depot in Queens, NY. This project, inaugurated on May 14th, 2024 as the first phase of MTA's transition to full electric by 2030
Hasib Rashid: What advice would you give to policymakers and industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of EVs and the development of infrastructure?
Guy Mannino: Collaboration is key. Policymakers need to recognize the importance of investing in EV infrastructure. This means incentivizing businesses and consumers, streamlining permitting processes, and funding public charging stations. Industry leaders must continue to innovate and work together to create a seamless and reliable charging network. It’s also vital to educate the public about the benefits of electric vehicles and sustainable transportation.
Hasib Rashid: Before we wrap up, can you share a bit about your personal motivations and what keeps you driven in this industry?
Guy Mannino: For me, it’s about making a positive impact. I want to leave a legacy of sustainability and innovation. Seeing the tangible benefits of our work at Verdek, from reduced emissions to happier, healthier communities, is incredibly rewarding. I’m driven by the vision of a future where clean, renewable energy powers our lives, and I believe electric vehicles are a crucial part of that future.
Hasib Rashid: Thank you, Mr. Mannino. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you. Your insights are truly inspiring.
Guy Mannino: Thank you. Sharing my journey and vision for EV Infrastructure has been a pleasure. I’m excited about what the future holds.
About Guy Mannino: Guy Mannino is the driving force behind Verdek LLC, a visionary leader with a deep-seated commitment to sustainable solutions. With over three decades of experience in engineering and a passion for innovation, Mannino has dedicated his career to advancing the EV infrastructure industry. His expertise and foresight have positioned Verdek as a leader in the field, spearheading initiatives that are transforming the landscape of electric mobility. The journey of electric vehicles from a niche market to a mainstream mode of transportation has been nothing short of remarkable. With pioneers like Verdek LLC and its visionary CEO Guy Mannino leading the way, the future of EV infrastructure looks brighter than ever. As we move forward, the combined efforts of the industry and policymakers will be key to ensuring a sustainable and electrified future for all.
About Verdek: A pioneer in sustainable energy solutions, Verdek is dedicated to advancing clean transportation. The company develops leading-edge technologies to make renewable energy both accessible and efficient. Discover more at Verdek CEO, Guy Mannino
Verdek is proud to share the latest updates from our ongoing project in Charleston, Staten Island. Our journey toward a greener New York City is full steam ahead! Following our successful installation of 17 ABB pantograph chargers at MTA's Grand Avenue Depot, we’re now bringing the future of public transportation to life in Staten Island.
🔧 On-Site Action: Our team has been hard at work installing the next wave of state-of-the-art chargers, and we’re thrilled to give you an exclusive first look at the progress. Swipe through the photos to see how we’re transforming the depot into a hub of sustainable energy. 🌟 What’s Next? As we continue to advance this project, we’re more committed than ever to electrifying New York’s bus fleet and reducing the city’s carbon footprint. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the final stages in Staten Island! Join us in leading the charge toward a cleaner, greener future. Every step forward counts! ⚡🚍 hashtag#Sustainabilityhashtag#EVRevolutionhashtag#Verdekhashtag#NYCTransithashtag#GreenCitieshashtag#CharlestonStatenIslandhashtag#ABBChargers
Verdek Awarded Statewide Contract by the Florida Sheriffs Association
We are excited to announce that Verdek has been awarded a prestigious statewide purchasing contract in collaboration with the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), the Florida Association of Counties, and the Florida Fire Chiefs Association. This partnership allows Verdek to provide our advanced EV charging solutions to a wide range of public entities across the state of Florida, streamlining the purchasing process and making it easier for local governments and public safety agencies to access our services.
About the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) Contract:
The Florida Sheriffs Association, in partnership with the Florida Association of Counties and the Florida Fire Chiefs Association, offers a comprehensive statewide purchasing contract specifically designed for local governments, county sheriffs, county governments, local county boards, municipalities, police agencies, other local public or public safety agencies, and state universities and colleges. Since its inception in 1993, the Cooperative Purchasing Program within FSA has thrived, offering an efficient and cost-effective way for public entities to procure necessary products and services.
What This Means for Florida Public Entities:
By utilizing the FSA contract, public entities across Florida can now easily purchase Verdek's industry-leading EV chargers and benefit from our professional installation services. This contract simplifies the procurement process, ensuring that your organization can quickly and efficiently implement sustainable transportation solutions without the complexities of traditional bidding processes.
Key Benefits of the FSA Contract:
Streamlined Purchasing: The FSA contract provides a hassle-free purchasing experience, allowing your organization to focus on what matters most serving your community.
Comprehensive Terms and Conditions: The contract includes well-defined terms and conditions based on best practices, ensuring a smooth transaction process for both purchasers and vendors.
Statewide Accessibility: Whether you represent a local government, public safety agency, or educational institution, the FSA contract makes it easier than ever to access the high-quality products and services you need.
Why Partner with Verdek?
At Verdek, we are dedicated to driving the future of sustainable transportation by providing innovative and reliable EV charging solutions. With our extensive experience and proven track record, we are the trusted partner for organizations looking to make a positive environmental impact while meeting the growing demand for EV infrastructure. Our partnership with the Florida Sheriffs Association further strengthens our commitment to supporting public entities in their journey toward a greener future.
Get Started with Verdek and the FSA Contract Today
If your organization is ready to simplify the process of acquiring and installing EV chargers, Verdek is here to help. Leverage the power of the FSA contract to access our state-of-the-art solutions and ensure your community is equipped for the future of transportation.
For more information or to get started, visit Florida Sheriffs Association’s website: www.flsheriffs.org or contact our team directly at Info@Verdek.Com.
Together, let’s power a sustainable future across Florida!
Kick-off of 17 state-of-the-art ABB Pantograph Chargers for the NYC Electric Bus fleet
In a remarkable leap towards sustainable urban transportation, Chargers installed in Grand Ave. Depot in Maspeth for NYC MTA Electric Buses was inaugurated on May 14th, 2024. Verdek LLC has successfully installed 17 state-of-the-art pantograph chargers for the NYC public electric bus fleet. This ambitious project in Queens marks a significant milestone in the city's journey towards a greener future. As the first project of its kind, the challenges were immense, but Verdek LLC has set an exemplary standard by overcoming these obstacles and delivering a comprehensive solution.
There are 8 key challenges faced and solved during this project:
1. Infrastructure Limitations
2. Permitting and Regulatory Complexities
3. Technical Integration
4. Environmental and Community Impact
5. Project Management and Coordination
6. Safety and Reliability
7. Cost Management
8. Training and Support
News Coverage:
Tackling Infrastructure Challenges:
One of the initial hurdles faced by Verdek was the limitation of existing electrical infrastructure. The high-power demands of bus chargers necessitated substantial upgrades. Verdek's engineers conducted an exhaustive assessment, collaborating closely with utility companies. This meticulous planning ensured a robust power supply capable of meeting the demands of the new charging stations.
In addition to electrical upgrades, space constraints posed a significant challenge. Verdek responded with compact and modular charging solutions, optimizing space utilization without compromising on functionality. The integration of smart grid technologies further enhanced power management, ensuring a seamless charging experience for the bus fleet.
Navigating Permitting and Regulatory Complexities:
Navigating the intricate web of local, state, and federal regulations was another significant challenge. Verdek's team engaged early with regulatory bodies, leveraging their expertise to streamline the permitting process. By hiring experts specializing in infrastructure projects, Verdek ensured compliance and expedited documentation, keeping the project on track.
Ensuring Technical Integration:
Ensuring the compatibility of the new charging infrastructure with existing and future bus models was paramount. Verdek adopted industry-standard charging protocols and worked closely with bus manufacturers to meet their specifications. This collaboration guaranteed that the chargers would be interoperable with different bus models, future-proofing the infrastructure for technological advancements.
Mitigating Environmental and Community Impact:
Minimizing disruption to the local community during installation was a priority for Verdek. By scheduling construction during off-peak hours and maintaining open communication with the MTA facility management, the team addressed concerns and kept the community informed. The design and performance of these charging stations ensured that the new infrastructure blended into the daily depot operations.
Mastering Project Management and Coordination:
Coordinating multiple stakeholders, including utility companies, contractors, and suppliers, was a complex task. Verdek established a dedicated project management office (PMO) to oversee all aspects of the project. Utilizing advanced project management software, they tracked progress, managed resources, and ensured timely communication among stakeholders. Robust risk management practices anticipated and mitigated potential issues, keeping the project on schedule and within budget.
Ensuring Safety and Reliability:
Safety and reliability were at the forefront of Verdek's priorities. Adhering to stringent safety standards, the team performed regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the infrastructure's reliability in all weather conditions. Using weather-resistant materials and designs, they guaranteed that the chargers functioned flawlessly year-round. Comprehensive training programs for operators and maintenance staff ensured that everyone was well-versed in safety protocols and emergency procedures.
Efficient Cost Management:
Controlling costs while maintaining high-quality installation was another critical aspect of the project. Verdek conducted detailed cost-benefit analyses to prioritize essential components, sourced materials competitively, and explored public-private partnerships and grants to fund the project. This strategic approach allowed for efficient cost management without compromising on quality.
Verdek LLC's completion of this first-of-its-kind project is a testament to their innovative solutions and unwavering dedication. The installation of 17 pantograph chargers for NYC's electric buses not only supports the city's environmental goals but also sets a benchmark for future sustainable transportation projects. This achievement underscores Verdek's role as a leader in the EV infrastructure industry, driving the transition towards a cleaner, greener future for urban transportation.
As NYC's electric buses now glide through the streets of Queens, they do so powered by Verdek's cutting-edge solution and visionary approach. This project stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through ingenuity, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, meeting timelines, cost management, environmental considerations, regulatory compliance, and safety and training requirements.
About VERDEK™
Verdek™ leads the charge in the renewable energy revolution, offering a spectrum of solutions to empower businesses and communities in their transition to clean energy. Our dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction is driving a positive environmental impact, one installation at a time.
Engage with Us
For further information or to join us on this journey towards a sustainable future, contact us via email at info@verdek.com, call us at (203) 421-7477, or visit our website at www.verdek.com. Together, let’s accelerate towards a sustainable future.
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