August 1, 2011: EV Charging Stations Make Thier Massachusetts Debut~!
In the early 20th century, the introduction of gas stations caused a widespread public outcry over concerns about fires and loss of land. Today those same businesses are found throughout the land and are an accepted and safe part of our lives. The Institute for Energy and Sustainability (IES) finds we are poised to begin a new chapter for the transportation industry in Massachusetts. IES recently learned it was the recipient of a Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources Grant (DOER) to install Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations. IES had applied for ten stations to be installed throughout the city, on the campuses of Clark University and WPI, and at the Rt. 2 Visitors Center in Lancaster.
EV adoption has been stalled by the lack of charging stations and unfamiliarity with the technology and now through this DOER grant we have a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate the safety and functionality of EV’s. To learn more about the challenges, opportunities and successes of EV technology, IES hosted a tour of Control Mod Industries, in Connecticut where they manufacture ceiling mounted, retractable EV charging stations. Our group saw how the stations are made and learned about the residential and commercial benefits of the ceiling mount stations – and had the chance to charge a Chevy Volt!
EVs represent a chance to increase innovation and production at American manufacturing car plants. The Chevy Volt was named “Car of the Year” by Motor Trend Magazine. Ford recognized the market demand of electric vehicles and is beginning manufacture of a 2011 EV Ford Focus. EV’s are expected to gain in popularity, supported by President Obama’s goal of 1 million vehicles on the road in the next few years. In the near future, you or someone you know, will give EVs a test drive, buy one, or discover an interesting perspective. We invite you to share it with IES and our online community, so that we can learn and grow from each other and make choices that benefit the planet, the people and the economic engines that drive us all.
