Aurora to install nine EV chargers at three city sites using federal rebates

The Committee of the Whole reviewed and moved to add to consent a purchase order request for Blink Network LLC to furnish and install nine dual-port electric vehicle chargers across three city-owned locations.

Public Works staff said the total purchase order is $292,275 and that the city received roughly $211,320 in rebate vouchers from the U.S. Department of Energy through a 2023 allocation. Jason Bower, Public Works, said the selection followed an RFQ to identify a vendor to operate and install the stations and that Blink was chosen as the preferred vendor. "Of the $292,000, it's being covered by grants up to right around $211,000," Bower said.

Alderwoman Smith asked whether the procurement was bid; staff clarified it was an RFQ and locations were chosen for high public use: downtown parking garage, Garfield Park and an APD site. Bower said earlier city chargers produced small revenue (about $500/year at some fleet locations) but that downtown garage chargers are expected to generate greater usage and revenue. He said the city will continue to pursue grants and consider a CIP in the upcoming budget cycle for expanded installations.

The committee added the Blink purchase order to the consent agenda.