City plans major expansion of electric vehicle charging stations

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the current state and future plans for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the city. The conversation highlighted the dual purpose of the charging stations, which serve both public use and the city’s fleet of vehicles.

Currently, 14 charging stations are funded through the APS smart charging program, although there are no new opportunities for funding from this source at present. The city has also partnered with Naresco for additional installations as part of its energy conservation projects. All existing charging stations are located on city property, with several public-facing stations situated at key locations such as the aquaplex, city hall, and the Amtrak station.

As the city transitions its fleet to electric vehicles, officials acknowledged the need to prioritize charging stations specifically for city use. A citywide infrastructure analysis has been completed to identify areas that require immediate attention, with plans to apply for a federal grant aimed at expanding public charging options. The goal is to establish 50 publicly accessible charging stations, each equipped with two ports.

The discussion also touched on the lack of dedicated charging stations for electric bicycles, which currently rely on home charging or standard outlets in emergencies. Officials noted that while the existing chargers are Level 2, there are aspirations to pursue Level 3 fast chargers to enhance the charging network.

Additionally, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is working on a plan to install fast chargers every 50 miles along major corridors, which aligns with the city's efforts to improve EV infrastructure. The meeting underscored the city's commitment to expanding its EV charging capabilities while balancing the needs of both the community and municipal fleet operations.