
The Logistics of Logistics · 2026-06-23 · 49 min
In "Electrifying the Cold Chain Without Breaking the Grid" Joe Lynch and Sam Plunkett , CEO of Nivalis Energy Systems, discuss how self-powered, electrified trailers can drastically cut fleet costs and emissions without overwhelming the power grid. About Sam Plunkett Sam Plunkett is CEO of Nivalis Energy Systems, where he is leading the transition away from diesel-powered refrigeration in commercial transport. Under his leadership, Nivalis is developing and deploying electrified refrigerated trailer solutions that help fleets reduce operating costs, lower emissions, and improve the efficiency of cold-chain logistics operations across North America and Europe. Prior to joining Nivalis, Sam led Battery Technology at Beam Global and built a career spanning materials science, electrochemistry, electrical engineering and product development. He holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Argonne National Laboratory in conjunction with the University of Illinois Chicago, where his strong publication record and patented innovations focused on battery thermal safety and advanced Lithium battery chemistry.