Submitted by Mitch Gross, Eversource.
BERLIN, Conn. (April 12, 2021) – In an effort to provide drivers with effective and convenient charging options that enable long-distance electric vehicle (EV) travel, Eversource is joining the Electric Highway Coalition. Comprised of seven of the nation’s leading utility companies, the coalition will advance clean energy by helping to enable EV drivers’ access to uninterrupted travel across major regions of the country.
“This coalition makes range anxiety a thing of the past by creating an organized network of chargers along major highways,” said Eversource Vice President of Strategy & Policy Roger Kranenburg. “As a catalyst for clean energy, we are deploying one of the largest EV charging programs in the nation. We’re rapidly advancing to our goal of providing 3,500 charging ports across Massachusetts, and we’re seeking regulatory and state approval in both Connecticut and New Hampshire for EV programs in those states. Our program and this coalition will play vital roles in reducing carbon emissions across the region and realizing our clean energy future.”
Each utility will provide EV charging solutions within its service territory through a network of DC fast chargers, coordinating with neighboring utilities, and will connect major highway systems from the Atlantic Coast, through the Midwest and South and into the Gulf and Central Plains regions. Other participating utilities include American Electric Power, Dominion Energy, Duke Energy, Entergy Corporation, Southern Co., and the Tennessee Valley Authority.
The Edison Electric Institute estimates 18 million EVs will be on U.S. roads by 2030, and while some drivers recognize the benefits of owning an EV, like low-cost home charging, many others are concerned with the availability of charging stations during long trips. Eversource and its partner utilities are demonstrating to customers that EVs can be a choice for both in-town driving and long road trips. Sites along major highways with easy access and amenities for travelers are being considered as coalition members work to determine final charging station locations. Charging stations will provide universal DC fast chargers that are capable of getting drivers back on the road in approximately 20-30 minutes.
This effort could help drivers realize the benefits of how EVs fit both their lifestyle and travel plans, especially if those plans cross state lines.
