PHOTO: Duke Energy
Duke Energy to Participate in Regional EV Charging Network
March 10, 2021
On March 2, 2021, Duke Energy and five other major utilities announced the formation of the Electric Highway Coalition and a plan to create a seamless network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to connect major highways in the South, Midwest, Gulf, and central Plains regions. The utilities in the coalition include Duke Energy, American Electric Power, Dominion Energy, Entergy Corporation, Southern Co., and the Tennessee Valley Authority.
The companies are taking steps to provide EV fast charging options within their respective service territories to facilitate interstate travel without interruptions. The availability of charging stations during long road trips is a concern among many drivers who recognize the benefits of EVs. Charging stations will provide a fast charging experience as new EV models are capable of charging at faster speeds.
Prior to the regional collaboration, Duke Energy was already launching pilot programs to expand EV charging. A $25M pilot program in North Carolina will lead to installation of 200 public Level 2 and fast charging stations, additional stations at multifamily buildings and a school bus electrification pilot that will allow school districts to replace diesel buses with electrics.
