Maryland recently opened a service station for electric vehicles (EV) in Montgomery County that is the nation’s first fully converted gas-to-electric refueling station.
The station can accommodate four EVs simultaneously and charge them in 20 to 30 minutes, delivering 50 kilowatts for charging through a high-powered, 200 kilowatt, four dispenser system.
The station also features an automated convenience store and a certified repair facility.
The station was jointly funded by the Electric Vehicle Institute (EVI) and the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA). MEA awarded EVI with a $786,000 Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Program grant during fiscal year 2018 that was used to purchase 16 fast chargers for seven locations in the state.
“EVI is excited to have installed a high powered, fast-charging system in Takoma Park as it is a significant step in providing a ‘gas-station’ like charging experience for Maryland EV drivers and commuters in the region,” EVI CEO Matthew Wade said.
Currently, there are more than 600 charging stations in Maryland. The state’s goal is to have 60,000 EVs on the road next year, and 300,000 on the road by 2025. More EV charging infrastructure will be needed to reach this goal.
The state’s energy programs are strategically advancing toward the goal, MEA said.