NRCM news release
October 25, 2019 (Augusta, ME) — It just got easier for electric car drivers to travel throughout Maine thanks to two new high-speed charging stations opening today at the West Gardiner Service Plaza. These new “DC fast chargers” can provide hundreds of miles of range in as little as 15 minutes, just enough time to stretch your legs and find a restroom or cup of coffee. They are part of a growing network of DC fast chargers being installed on the interstate and key travel corridors.
Governor Janet Mills and the Efficiency Maine Trust also announced nearly two dozen grant awards to towns, businesses, and other organizations for mid-speed electric car chargers to be installed across Maine.
Natural Resources Council of Maine Clean Energy Advocate & Staff Attorney Sue Ely issued the following statement:
“The availability and variety of electric cars just keeps getting better, while the cost of these vehicles keeps going down and ranges go up. They are an increasingly good deal for consumers, especially accounting for fuel and maintenance savings.
“While most electric car drivers only need to charge their cars at home overnight, a strong network of electric vehicle charging stations is important for long-distance travel for Mainers and our visitors.”
“In addition, putting medium-speed (Level 2) charging stations all across Maine increases options for all-electric drivers. And seeing them lets Mainers know that owning an electric car is something to seriously consider. That is especially true now that Maine offers $2,000 in an instant rebate when you buy an electric car.
“We applaud Governor Mills’ dedication to accelerating the electric vehicle market in Maine. Her work with the Efficiency Maine Trust to provide vehicle rebates and boost charging infrastructure is exactly what we need to get Maine families into these clean, reliable, and fun to drive vehicles.
“Emissions from cars and trucks continues to be the largest source of carbon pollution in Maine. Electric vehicles contribute to dramatic reductions in carbon pollution and are an essential part of the climate-friendly future Governor Mills and the Efficiency Maine Trust are helping to create.”
