More Options for Electric Vehicles

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Created on Wednesday, 14 October 2015 21:15

Written by Tyler Cadorette

NORTHEAST KINGDOM – Electric vehicle drivers in Vermont currently have access to 80 public charging stations across the state, but only four of those are here in the Northeast Kingdom.

In an effort to better serve eco-friendly drivers, Green Mountain Power is looking to fix gaps in the charging station network. The company is offering four grants – each worth $12,500 – to fund the installation of solar-paired electric car charging stations.

Marty's 1st Stop in Danville is home to a new charging station provided by Green Mountain Power. While the unit is not solar-powered, it's a welcome addition for store owner Marty Beattie.

"They came to me and they were looking at traffic that came up I-91 and I-93 that wanted to go across Vermont and head west on Route 2," Beattie explained.

In recent years, electric vehicles have become a more popular option for local drivers.

Armando D'Leon, a salesman for Twin State Ford in St. Johnsbury, says they've sold all of the 2015 models on the lot and anticipate similar interest going forward.

"There's always going to be a demand for something like this and, as much as anybody can say it, we all have an impact and we all want to try and help with that impact on the Earth," he said.

Because of high demand and limited local charging options, Twin State Ford recently installed a charging station that is open to the public. Drivers from as far away as Boston have stopped to use it, according to salesman Brian Foley.

Green Mountain Power spokesperson Dorothy Schnure says the company already oversees 38 charging stations in the state, 10 of which are solar-paired.

Local organizations that are already using solar power to curb energy emissions think that combining it with eco-friendly driving is good news for both the environment and the economy.

"Absolutely put it in places where there will be additional economic benefits to the surrounding communities. I think that makes perfect sense," said Adam Kane, the executive director of the Fairbanks Museum in St. Johnsbury.

The museum recently installed several solar panels in hopes of covering 15% of its total energy costs.

Both community members and businesses are encouraged to apply for the four Green Mountain Power charging station grants. Locations in high-traffic areas that offer a variety of activities, such as shopping centers and downtown districts, are especially appealing for the project, according to Schnure.

Green Mountain Power is accepting grant applications through October 23.