MPO reviews EV charging progress and equity initiatives as Cape Cod seeks fast‑charging network

Stephen Topper (Cape Cod Commission) briefed the MPO on regional electric vehicle electrification and public charging needs. He said transportation is the region’s largest greenhouse-gas source and that Cape Cod has roughly 220,000 fossil-fuel vehicles; EV and plug-in vehicle counts are small but rising. Topper noted a visitor population that requires public charging because many do not have home chargers.

Topper explained charging levels (Level 1/2 and DC fast charging/Level 3) and said the MPO and staff successfully petitioned MassDOT/FHWA to include Cape Cod on the NEVI alternative-fuel corridor map, which helps qualify the region for federal deployment funds. He reported approximately eight existing DC fast-charging locations on Cape Cod and an additional eight anticipated within the next year through state investments.

Topper described two regional initiatives: a hotel-focused campaign with the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce to increase chargers at lodging (fewer than ~17 of ~350 hotels currently have chargers), and an equity-focused EV car-share pilot tied to affordable housing that would install chargers and pooled EVs for hourly rental with preferential rates for residents. He also noted support for municipalities on charger operations and maintenance and said staff will continue to update federal station maps to protect grant eligibility.

Board members asked about Tesla’s compatibility efforts and the increasing cost and siting challenges for public chargers; Topper said Tesla’s North American Charging Standard roll-out is underway and some new chargers include 'magic docks' that accommodate Tesla and CCS vehicles.