0 Shares

Submitted by Energy Northwest

Energy Northwest was conditionally awarded a $1.15 million grant from the state’s Clean Energy Fund to install a network of electric vehicle charging stations along the White Pass Scenic Byway.

The Washington State Department of Commerce recently announced $9.8 million in grants for projects that will support electrification goals, aid communities and address barriers to infrastructure deployment. Energy Northwest is one of 14 entities chosen for an Electrification of Transportation Systems award, pending successful contract negotiation.

The ETS grants are from the state’s Clean Energy Fund, which is managed by Commerce, and funds the development, demonstration and deployment of clean energy technology.

“With transportation being the largest source of greenhouse gas pollution, electric vehicle infrastructure is vital to helping our state reach our climate goals,” said Greg Cullen, Energy Northwest vice president for Energy Services & Development. “Having sufficient charging infrastructure in place will help address people’s ‘range anxiety’ and facilitate the transition to battery-powered passenger vehicles.”

The expansion of EV charging station infrastructure is aligned with EN’s vision to be a clean energy leader. Energy Northwest has been involved with electric vehicle infrastructure development since 2016. As a member of the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Transportation Alliance or EVITA, EN has overseen installation of 10 EV charging stations to help bridge the charging gap between eastern and western Washington, with more planned.

“We are proud of the role we have and the many avenues we’re taking to advance clean energy in Washington. Collaboration with our utility partners was key to the success of the first EVITA project, and will remain our focus with this next project,” Cullen said.

This project will be a collaboration with partners Lewis County Public Utility District and Twin Transit, with support from White Pass Scenic Byway organization, Benton REA and surrounding community members.

About Energy Northwest

Energy Northwest owns and operates a diverse mix of 100% clean electricity-generating resources: hydro, solar, battery storage and wind projects, and the third-largest provider of electricity in Washington – the Columbia Generating Station nuclear power facility. These projects provide carbon-free electricity at the cost of generation – enough clean, cost-effective and reliable energy to power more than a million homes each year. As an independent joint operating agency of Washington state, Energy Northwest comprises 27 public power member utilities from across the state serving more than 1.5 million customers. The agency continually explores new generation projects to meet its members’ needs. www.energy-northwest.com.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
0 Shares