False Assumptions: A Critique of Keller et al (2019) on BC Vehicle Electrification

Abstract

Keller et al have reported that the complete electrification of road transportation in British Columbia is possible and that incorporating a requirement that the additional electricity supply required be 93% renewable in nature is also possible and increases the perceived benefits. While their logic is impeccable, it is founded on naive, simplistic, or just false assumptions. Consideration of the corrected or realistic assumptions invalidates all the conclusions of the paper. The faulty premises underlying Keller et al will have serious socio-economic consequences for the people of British Columbia if no further critical assessment of their proposals is undertaken by policymakers.

Keywords: British Columbia, road traffic electrification, climate change, renewables, cost-benefit analysis, electrical generation required, BEV

JEL Classification: H, Q, R