Central Electric connects electric vehicle charging station

Central Electric is partnering with North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives, ChargePoint and the Jordan Dam Mini Mart & Country Kitchen to install a Level 3 DC Fast electric vehicle charging station at the Mini Mart’s location right off U.S. 1 in Moncure.

“The Jordan Dam Mini Mart, located right off U.S. 1 on a heavily traveled route in our area and in close proximity to many popular tourist spots around Jordan Lake, is a perfect location for an EV charging station. The charging station will help draw visitors and economic activity to this area, while also supporting the environmental and cost-saving benefits of electric vehicles,” said Eddie Oldham, Central Electric CEO and General Manager. “EVs offer numerous opportunities to both drivers and communities, and we want to do everything we can to encourage their adoption and make it easier for EV owners to travel throughout our state.”

The station is part of a $1 million investment North Carolina’s electric cooperatives are making in rural electric vehicle charging infrastructure across North Carolina. The funding will be used to install 21 charging stations in cooperative-served communities, including 10 Level 3 DC Fast chargers and 11 Level 2 chargers. ChargePoint, an industry leader in EV charging infrastructure and networks, will supply the equipment and apply technical expertise in managing and installing the sites.

DC Fast Charge stations provide a very quick charge and are capable of charging a depleted electric vehicle’s battery to 80 percent capacity in under 30 minutes, depending on the electric vehicle’s battery size and charging capabilities. DC Fast Charge stations are usually located in high-traffic public areas or along major highway corridors.

Level 2 charging is commonly found in public locations, including shopping centers, downtown areas, multifamily communities and workplaces. The stations can also be installed at home if a 240-volt outlet is available. Level 2 charging is three to five times faster than Level 1 (a standard 120-volt outlet) and provides 10 to 20 electric miles per hour.

Driving electric offers cost savings, more convenience, less maintenance, a better driving experience, a healthier environment and a more efficient electric grid. Central Electric members also have access to additional benefits and incentives, including a time-of-use electric rate designed for electric vehicle charging and access to a special $3,500 rebate when purchasing a Nissan LEAF, just for being a co-op member. Federal tax credits ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 are also available for purchasing a qualifying new electric vehicle. For more information about the impact of driving electric and EV benefits, visit the co-op’s Electric Vehicle page under the "Energy Efficiency" tab.