Phoenix Proposes Expansion of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure
In an effort to support the growing number of high-mileage electric vehicles (EVs), the city of Phoenix has unveiled a comprehensive plan to enhance its charging infrastructure. The ambitious proposal aims to establish up to 1,900 additional charging ports across the Valley, catering to the anticipated demand by 2030.
According to the city’s Charging Action Plan, there is a pressing need for more high-powered charging stations to accommodate high-mileage vehicles such as rideshares, delivery vans, and autonomous transport vehicles. These vehicles are ideal candidates for electrification but are currently hindered by a lack of adequate charging facilities.
The development of this proposal involved collaboration with C40 Cities, a global network of mayors, and WSP, an engineering and design firm. The goal is to fill existing gaps in the charging network, particularly in areas where the need is greatest, to minimize operating costs for residents, lower emissions, and provide better access for renters who have limited charger availability.
Significant locations identified for enhanced charging capacity include high-traffic areas like Sky Harbor, Westgate, and Old Town, which would serve as community charging hubs. Currently, the Phoenix metro area boasts around 950 EV charging locations with over 2,700 ports, predominantly situated in affluent neighborhoods. Coverage is notably sparse in the West Valley and on the urban periphery.
The proposal calls for a diverse array of charger types to meet the varying requirements of both personal and high-mileage vehicles. Furthermore, the city plans to introduce a fleet of 500 electric vehicles by 2030 and recommends that charging stations be shaded to combat the reduced effective range of EVs during the scorching summer months, which can diminish range by 20-30%.
The draft proposal is open for public feedback until October 14, providing residents an opportunity to voice their opinions on the future of Phoenix’s EV infrastructure.
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