To help customers save money and be more sustainable, Portland General Electric (PGE) is developing a network of charging stations for plug-in electric hybrid vehicles.
PGE is working with local businesses and governments to install about a dozen stations throughout the region to help develop and test the transportation infrastructure needed to support plug-in vehicles.
It is hoped that the move will also help accelerate the adoption of plug-in hybrid vehicles, while providing current owners with more convenient plug-in options around town. In addition, PGE's investment in smart meter technology may allow plug-in vehicles to connect to the electrical grid to provide power during peak load times.
The first station up and charging
The first charging station was installed July 29 outside PGE's headquarters, 121 SW Salmon Street, replacing an outdated station installed in 1996 for all-electric vehicles. During this test phase, there is no charge to use the stations. All will be powered by 100 percent PGE renewable energy. For more information, see the plug-in vehicle charging station fact sheet . (mp/wga)