Arizona Tribune - Energy Northwest and EVCS to Boost Electric Vehicle Charging Along Highway 101

The project is supported by a $14.6 million award from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program, administered by the FHWA.

This major initiative will enhance EV charging infrastructure in rural and disadvantaged communities on the US West Coast, including on Indigenous Tribal lands. Highway 101, known for its rural but heavily traveled tourist areas, will see the installation of charging sites to accelerate EV adoption among local residents and support EV drivers visiting destinations like Olympic National Park or the coastal regions of Washington and Oregon. The project will include 40 DC Fast chargers, complemented by 12 Level 2 chargers.

Energy Northwest, a Washington state joint operating agency, oversees the CFI grant and has partnered with EVCS to plan, design, construct, own, and operate the new charging stations. These stations will be publicly accessible and equipped with charging technology compatible with all EV models, ensuring a reliable and efficient charging experience. Strategically located at key points along the coastal route, these chargers will provide convenience but also offer drivers opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest while recharging their vehicles.

"We're excited to partner with Energy Northwest to bring reliable and accessible EV charging to Highway 101," said Gustavo Occhiuzzo, CEO of EVCS. "This collaboration marks an important step in expanding EV infrastructure in rural and underserved areas, making EV adoption more convenient and practical for all drivers."

Energy Northwest and EVCS have begun the early stages of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process for each site. This process ensures informed decision-making by assessing the environmental impacts of the proposed project locations, with public involvement and tribal consultation playing key roles. The NEPA process is expected to take eight months, after which site preparations can begin, with construction projected for fall 2026.

"For close to a decade, Energy Northwest has been actively advancing EV charging infrastructure as part of our commitment to supporting the region's decarbonization goals," said Greg Cullen, vice president for Energy Services & Development at Energy Northwest. "Just as we've played a pivotal role in developing and delivering carbon-free energy to the region, we see similar opportunities to help decarbonize the transportation sector. Partnering with EVCS on this project allows us to bring cleaner, more accessible charging solutions to communities in Washington and Oregon."

About EVCS:

EVCS was founded in 2018 and has quickly become the largest privately held, electric vehicle fast charging network on the West Coast, home to 50% of the EVs in the U.S. EVCS is committed to leading the electric transportation revolution by rapidly expanding access to fast, affordable, reliable, and conveniently located public EV charging. Powered by 100% renewable energy, EVCS is disrupting the mobility industry through a turn-key approach that utilizes public and private funding sources to accelerate the installation of fast charging stations. EVCS has secured private and public funding to install, own, and operate over 1,400 chargers across over 300 public and private site hosts, including Fortune 500 companies and underrepresented communities. In addition, EVCS offers EV drivers flexible subscription charging plans. This includes unlimited charging plans designed for gig and high-mileage drivers, with significant potential savings. For more information, visit www.evcs.com.

About Energy Northwest:

Energy Northwest is a Washington state public power joint operating agency and a premier provider of carbon-free electricity. Energy Northwest comprises 28 public power member utilities, serving more than 1.5 million customers, and provides its members and regional customers with safe, reliable, cost-effective, responsible power generation and innovative energy and business solutions. The agency owns and operates hydroelectric, solar, battery storage, wind and the Northwest's only nuclear power facility. Energy Northwest also explores transportation electrification and new generation projects to the benefit of public power. For more information, visit www.energy-northwest.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Justin Arita
Senior Growth Manager, EVCS
[email protected]

Kelly Rae
Public Affairs - External Communications, Energy Northwest
[email protected]

SOURCE: EVCS

A.Ruiz--AT