In Oregon, new infrastructure investments are helping bridge the needs of both local residents and visitors from throughout the state and beyond, especially when it comes to clean transportation.
“Right now, for people driving around in electric cars, it’s very heavily dependent on what corridor you live on,” says Neil Baunsgard, electric transportation program manager at The Environmental Center. “We’re trying to accelerate adoption by helping build out a transportation system that works for all community members and all Oregonians.”
With help from Pacific Power, new public fast-charging stations in Bend, Madras, Mill City, Otis and Klamath Falls are doing just that—making it easier for area residents and travelers to quickly charge up while expanding their reach. Each station can charge up to six EVs of all makes and models at a time, with four fast chargers and a Level 2 dual-port charger.
“In general, smaller communities across Oregon are really able to benefit from electric technology because they often need to travel further distances,” says Baunsgard.
In Oregon, transportation accounts for over a third of the state’s carbon emissions, so increasing the number of electric vehicles helps reduce emissions. For several Oregon communities, emissions and air quality are major concerns.
“In Bend, we face a lot of poor outdoor air quality, says Kate Hawley, electric transportation program manager at Pacific power. “Having electric vehicles allows us to reduce the emissions produced by the transportation sector.”
Baunsgard says that while many Oregonians are excited about EVs for the environmental benefits, electric transportation also has the potential to be a less expensive long-term option.
“They’re really just excited about a car that is easy to maintain and inexpensive to fuel,” he says. “It’s also fun and easy to drive.”
Hawley thinks that with all the benefits and acceleration in technology, the potential for electric infrastructure is a bright solution for Oregon communities, one that makes clean transportation, easier, more accessible and affordable.
“This work provides Oregon communities with opportunities,” she says. “We’re here to make sure that these communities are part of that future.”
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