Title
Vote on a Request to Approve Applying For a Grant to Install a DC Fast Charging Station For Electric Vehicles
Abstract
Action Requested: Vote on a Request to Approve Applying For a Grant to Install a DC Fast Charging Station For Electric Vehicles
Introduction & Background: Volkswagen paid millions of dollars to settle a lawsuit regarding emissions systems in their vehicles. This money is being made available through the NC Department of Environmental Quality to install DC fast charging stations for electric vehicles.
Discussion & Analysis: This reimbursement grant would cover 80% of the cost to install a DC fast charging station. The County has two years from the date of acceptance of the grant to complete the project.
These stations are able to charge an electric vehicle in under an hour, making them ideal for charging electric vehicles that are traveling long distances. By installing a network of these stations throughout the state, the goal is to encourage more use of electric vehicles, thereby lowering vehicle emissions. Having a fast charging station in the County will encourage electric vehicle operators to stop and patronize local businesses nearby while their vehicle is charging.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: Under the Resiliency Plan Element, Strategy 5.4 says to encourage the use of electric vehicles by leveraging public assets to develop more electric vehicle charging stations in the county.
Budgetary Impact: The estimated total cost to install a charging station with two plugs is approximately $100,000. This includes electric upgrades due to the large amount of electricity needed, installation of the station itself, set up cost for a Duke Energy account, an operation and maintenance contract for five years, and required signage. The County’s match would be 20%, or approximately $20,000.
Recommendation: Approve Applying For a Grant to Install a DC Fast Charging Station For Electric Vehicles