Vermont Business Magazine
January 28, 2021
This Latest Program Builds on GMP’s Growing Commitment to EV Infrastructure Across Vermont
Green Mountain Power (GMP) is making it simple and affordable for business customers to install electric vehicle chargers for the public and their employees with a new Workplace Charging pilot program. The turnkey package includes the Level 2 charger, software, installation, project management, maintenance and financing. The cost could be as low as $35 per month for a single charger.
GMP partnered with the Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) to offer low-interest, flexible financing for businesses and municipalities in the program, and a GMP energy advisor will work closely with customers to streamline the entire process.
“GMP is committed to growing its network of EV charging infrastructure across Vermont to make EVs an option for more and more Vermonters, said GMP President and CEO Mari McClure. “This program is great because it makes EV charging simple and affordable. Two things businesses really need right now. Looking ahead, a statewide charging network is foundational for economic development, tourism, and ensuring that more Vermonters have access to clean transportation.”
For added convenience, the VEDA loan payment will be wrapped in to one monthly amount – that includes charger, installation, and software – on the customer’s GMP energy statement.
“Supporting the renewable energy sector by providing innovative financing has been an essential part of VEDA’s mission for many years,” said Cassie Polhemus, chief executive officer at VEDA. “This program addresses some of the barriers businesses face when building EV charging stations, like upfront costs and lack of onsite technical expertise. It also addresses larger transportation issues we face as Vermonters, and we hope it encourages continued investments in renewable energy solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve our infrastructure.”
Vermont companies E&S Electric and Norwich Solar are working with GMP to do the charger installation work for program participants.
“This program fits well with Norwich Solar’ and Vermont’s mission of utilizing renewable energy technologies to reduce pollution and dependence on fossil fuels, promote local jobs, increase energy independence, and help Vermonters save money. We are excited to partner with Green Mountain Power to help build out the EV charging infrastructure necessary to fully achieve this vision,” said Kevin Davis, vice president of sales and marketing at Norwich Solar in White River Junction.
Allen Simard, co-owner of E&S Electric in Williamstown, said EV charger installation is a growing part of his company’s work. “We’re glad to be a part of a program that will help Vermont businesses and help to combat climate change. We’ve worked with GMP on a number of projects, and we’re looking forward to helping their customers expand EV access,” Simard said.
Transportation is the top source of carbon pollution in Vermont. GMP has projects and partnerships underway that leverage emerging technologies including more Level 3 fast charging in Vermont within the year. This includes the recent approval of a rate change that makes fast charging more affordable, encouraging more businesses and communities to install fast charging stations for the public.