The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) plans to add electronic vehicle (EV) chargers starting this summer and over the next year. They will install level 2 EV chargers in selected state parks as part of a pilot project launched by the state park department and a non-profit organization, Adopt A Charger (AAC).
The agreement between OPRD and AAC would allow fundraising and donations to pay for the installation of the EV chargers and an option for a donor to sponsor electricity costs for up to three years, according to a report.
Passed in 2021, House Bill 2290 mandates Oregon State Parks to allow the planning and installation of public EV charging stations in parking spaces at state parks. The agreement shows the goal and direction planned in the legislation.
EV manufacturer, Rivian is working with the AAC to provide the installation plans, construction costs, and EV chargers as part of its Rivian Waypoints charging network.
Rivian Waypoints can provide up to 25 miles of range per hour of charging. The chargers have a J1772 plug that makes them compatible with every EV. Additionally, Entec Polymers offered to temporarily sponsor the electricity costs through its partnership with the AAC.
“Beyond helping reduce global and local pollution, including greenhouse gasses, state parks need to be accessible to everyone,” said Lisa Sumption, OPRD Director. “Looking ahead, electric vehicles will become more and more common, and rather than wait for someone else to fill all the charging gaps. We want to do our part.”
Sumption said there was “no better way” to commemorate the 100 years of state park service this year than setting up with them to serve people better for the next century. She is grateful to the donors that made it possible.
“The AAC goal is to introduce zero-emission tourism in Oregon and inspire visitors of all ages to consider the impact of their decisions on the environment,” said Kitty Adams Hoksbergen, executive director of AAC.
Hoksbergen said she is grateful to everyone at Oregon State Parks for proactively planning and providing EV charging stations at its state parks, as well as to Rivian for making it possible. She also thanked Entec for sponsoring the electrical usage for EV motorists, allowing them to charge their vehicles for free during the pilot period.
“OPRD’s commitment to service is a principle we share and look forward to contributing to in this pilot,” said Trent Warnke, Senior Director of Energy and Charging Solutions at Rivian. “For Rivian, electrifying adventure is something we’re inspired to do thoughtfully, especially when working off the beaten path.”
“Giving back to the community is embedded in Entec Polymers’ DNA, and sustainability has always been a large part of what we do and who we are,” said Steve Tomaszewski, Senior Vice President & General Manager. Partnering with Adopt a Charger and Rivian to support EV charging stations at Oregon State Parks allows us to advance the electrification of transportation and to make a difference in the communities that we serve.
The tentative list of state parks that are part of the pilot project includes L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, Banks-Vernonia State Trail, Rooster Rock State Park, Silver Falls State Park, The Cove Palisades State Park, Prineville Reservoir State Park, Cape Lookout State Park, and William M. Tugman State Park.
The list may change as the project progresses.
This article originally appeared on KTVZ.
Did you know Oregon’s state parks now feature innovative EV chargers? It’s a transformative move for sustainable travel!