Charlotte, N.C.-based Duke Energy says its EV Charging Infrastructure Support Project will boost the number of public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in North Carolina by 30%, providing $1 million to develop EV charging stations for city residents and providing $500,000 to build electric bus charging stations for transit agencies.
According to Duke Energy, the company will pay 100% up to $5,000 per public charge port; $20,000 per site; or $50,000 per city with the $1 million offering under the program. Further, Duke will pay 100% for the electric bus charging infrastructure up to $250,000 per entity.
“Over the past decade, Duke Energy has supported the development of several hundred electric vehicle charging stations in North Carolina,” says David Fountain, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “Adoption of EVs depends on a robust infrastructure for consumers.”
Specifically, Duke Energy states it has been active in building public charging stations at parking decks, libraries and shopping areas.
According to Advanced Energy, an independent, nonprofit organization established by the North Carolina Utilities Commission, there are about 4,700 registered plug-in EVs and about 700 public charging ports spread out around North Carolina.
“Duke Energy’s new program will give communities the opportunity to provide a new amenity for residents and visitors that also benefits the local economy and air quality,” adds Dr. Robert Koger, president of Advanced Energy.
Targeted to cities and towns, including both retail and wholesale customers, the programs are part of a recent settlement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and environmental groups.
The deadline to apply is Sept. 1.
