In response to an Efficiency Maine incentive program, two Gorham organizations were awarded grants to install electric vehicle charging stations in the downtown area. The First Parish Congregational Church and Hannaford Brothers, in collaboration with the Town, were among 11 awardees in Maine. The program’s goal is to support the construction of an electric vehicle charging infrastructure along main transportation corridors in Maine in response to the anticipated growth of electric vehicles.

Christine Dyke, lead minister at First Parish, commented that “our church is committed to the sacredness of creation, and we are always searching for opportunities to live out our values. The installation of these charging stations will encourage our members and the general public to make sustainable choices and reinforces our efforts to promote environmental and social justice.”

Kevin Jensen, economic development director for Gorham, is very supportive of the projects. “This reinforces our commitment to the Town’s sustainability plan, supports our economic goals, and puts Gorham in the forefront of a new technology that improves the livability of our town.” The addition of high level charging capacity corresponds with plans to add electric vehicles to the Town fleet.

Installation of these units will begin soon, and they should be fully functional by summer. The Level 2 smart technology will recharge EV batteries at a much faster rate than home-based charging units. The stations will be linked to the Internet which facilitates location, payment options, and data collection. Customers of local businesses will benefit from the ability to top off their batteries while shopping, going for appointments or doing errands in town.

The technology also aligns closely with the Maine Climate Action Plan which promotes the use of electric vehicles and anticipates that more than 40,000 EVs will be on Maine roads by 2025.

EVs sales are picking up so check out the newest models when you buy your next car.