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Date: 9/20/2023
HAMPDEN — At the Sept. 11 Select Board meeting, Jerry Olivetti from Rise Engineering proposed enhancing the local EV infrastructure by foregoing the slower Level 2 chargers to the more efficient Level 3 EV charging stations, backed by National Grid’s incentives.
The original proposal was for 60KW stations with two outlets and corresponding parking spots. However, bolstered by recent incentives, Olivetti proposes two 120KW chargers, each producing 60KW.
The upgrade can charge an EV to 80% within 30-45 minutes, a rate 20-30 times faster than Level 2 chargers. Olivetti emphasized the monetary and time-saving advantages of the National Grid incentive program with the rapid chargers.
The proposed stations, intended for public spaces, won’t strain Hampden’s finances. National Grid commits to covering all utility and infrastructure costs. Furthermore, the stations will tap into nearby high-voltage lines, and additional incentives are available for customer-side infrastructure, including required software.
Olivetti underscored that the initiative offers a “tremendous opportunity” for Hampden to access top-tier infrastructure at minimal costs. He urged other communities within National Grid’s market to consider the programs.
With an expected slowdown in grid expansions on the horizon, Olivetti felt the urgency of getting this infrastructure integrated soon, suggesting the Senior Center and police station as initial installation sites.
Financially, though a $9,000 grant was available to kickstart the program, the offerings from National Grid have rendered it unnecessary. If Hampden expands the chargers to other sites, new incentives will become accessible.
“By deploying chargers at key locations like the police station or Senior Center,” Olivetti stated, “the town could open the door for additional installations at the Town Hall or DPW, each with its set of incentives.”
Responding to queries about potential charger locations, Olivetti clarified that they merely need to be publicly accessible.
The initial focus remains on the Town Hall, Senior Center, and police stations. However, considering the regional absence of fast chargers, he also pushed for chargers at retail and other locations.
The broader push towards electrification in the region supports the initiative. Olivetti mentioned AAA of New England’s plans to purchase hundreds of Ford F-150 EVs and integrate DC fast chargers at their locations.
Also, local police departments are increasingly adopting EV trucks and cruisers, emphasizing the need for such charging stations.
Selectboard Chair John D. Flynn sought clarity on equipment ownership. Olivetti assured the Town of Hampden would have ownership. While the town would bear operating costs, the chargers would come with a two-year warranty, which is extendable to five years.
The chargers are low-maintenance, needing just an annual filter change.
Olivetti suggested incorporating adapters universally compatible for both Tesla and non-Tesla EVs. This advice comes in the wake of major automakers moving towards a standard EV charging protocol.
Town Administrator Robert Markel drew attention to chargers installed at Big Y Supermarkets and Whole Foods, incentivizing customers to shop longer. Hampden must submit an application that designates the charger locations.
The Selectboard tasked Markel with engaging the business community for prospective collaborations.