Puget Sound Electric rolls out program to help businesses install EV chargers
Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is funding workplace charging stations throughout its service area to help advance electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the state.
An initiative called PSE Up & Go Electric has installed more than 40 public and private charging stations for EV drivers over the past six years. This pilot program has targeted local employers.
Now, PSE is expanding the Up & Go Electric for Workplace pilot into a full-fledged program by covering up to 100 percent of the cost to install workplace charging stations. Adding workplace chargers is designed to remove one of the biggest accessibility hurdles for those considering an EV purchase, charging up at work. This program will remove barriers for those considering the switch to EVs, while helping the environment.
“Washington state plans to end sales on new light duty gas-powered cars in 2030, making electric vehicles the primary option for residents who drive to work,” PSE’s New Products and Services Manager Malcolm McCulloch said. “However, not everyone has access to reliable charging. Having more accessible chargers means employees are confident to go electric, a core goal at PSE.”
PSE is offering up to 100 percent of the installation cost for qualifying small and medium-sized businesses. Employers can also choose to own, control and maintain the charger themselves while fully managing the installation.
Further, workplaces that serve or employ historically underrepresented communities may be eligible to have 100 percent of the costs covered for both PSE-owned or customer-owned chargers.
“Transportation accounts for 45% of the state’s emissions,” McCulloch added. “Since 2019, PSE’s Up & Go Electric programs have provided more than 4,000 MWh to electric vehicle drivers, equating to over 400,000 gallons of gasoline saved, and more than 3,900 tons of CO2 avoided. Expanding this program to more workplaces will only further PSE and our communities toward a clean energy future.”
Interested employers can apply to the workplace charging program at www.PSE.com.
