Hawai’i Leads the Way in Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, the use of electric vehicles (EVs) has significantly increased over the past few years. EVs are not only eco-friendly but are also cost-efficient and low maintenance, hence making them an attractive purchase for consumers. However, the lack of a widespread charging infrastructure remains a major hurdle for EV owners.
In a bid to overcome this challenge, the US government launched the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program under the bipartisan infrastructure law passed by Congress in 2021. The program aims to install EV charging stations nationwide, with Hawaii leading the charge.
Hawaii, known for its stunning beaches and exotic flora, is often referred to as a paradise on earth. However, it is set to become a more sustainable paradise as it leads the way in EV charging infrastructure.
In June 2021, the Hawaii Department of Transportation announced that it had selected Tritium DCFC to supply 32 electric vehicle chargers funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure formula program (NEVI). These chargers will be installed in various locations on Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and Kauai.
With the installation of these 32 charging stations, Hawaii will become the first state to install federally-funded EV chargers, setting an example for other states to follow. Gabe Klein, executive director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, which manages the NEVI program, revealed that Ohio, Pennsylvania, Alaska, Colorado and the District of Columbia will soon follow Hawaii’s lead by finalizing contracts and beginning constructions.
The charging stations supplied by Tritium DCFC will be 50-kilowatt direct current fast-charging (DCFC) stations, which are capable of delivering battery range for electric vehicles in less than an hour.
This means that EV owners will be able to recharge their vehicle’s battery quickly and efficiently, allowing them to embark on long journeys without any range anxiety. Additionally, the chargers will be accessible to all EV makes and models, making it convenient for all EV users.
Interestingly, the installation of these chargers is only the beginning as Hawaii plans to have over 300 public EV charging stations by 2025. This will allow more drivers to switch to electric vehicles and contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions, which is a major cause of climate change.
Hawaii’s move to invest in EV charging infrastructure is a significant step towards reducing the country’s carbon footprint while promoting eco-friendly technologies. The NEVI program will not only contribute to a sustainable future but will also create new job opportunities and drive economic growth. As more states follow Hawaii’s lead, it is important to remember that investing in a sustainable future today is an investment in a sustainable future for generations to come.
