Cities and townships with electric vehicle charging policies in place are seeing significant benefits in their communities. Vehicle electrification reduces greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) which in turn is helping to improve public health. These policies are also bringing new jobs to the area. But these are not the only benefits associated with EV electrification.

Benefits of EV Charging for Cities and Townships

EV chargers for municipalities have a variety of benefits, and most of them don’t focus on gas prices. Although an electric fleet would be handy when gas prices fluctuate. Let’s take a closer look at some benefits.

Climate

On average, U.S. cities are responsible for around 70% of greenhouse gases, mostly from driving gas-powered vehicles. However, GHG emissions are not always uniform across the state. Some cities produce more emissions than others. For example, 93% of GHG emissions in Nevada are being produced in Reno and Las Vegas. Close to one-third of emissions in New York come from larger cities like NYC and Albany.

Even cities with lower GHG emission rates can still see a negative impact on public health.

Public Health and Social Equity

The transportation industry is responsible for a large portion of harmful pollutants, especially in larger cities. These airborne particles include nitrogen oxides that are linked to respiratory diseases, cancer, heart disease, and more.

In comparison, electric vehicles are tailpipe emission-free, meaning EVs are not emitting harmful pollutants into the air.

The electrification of vehicles by 2050 can lead to fewer premature deaths, around 6,300 per year. An estimated $72 trillion in health costs can also be saved. Workers across the country may miss fewer workdays due to illnesses from air pollutants, around 416,000 days. The U.S. can also see a reduction in asthma attacks.

Air quality is also about social equity. Oftentimes, impoverished neighborhoods are where major transportation hubs are located like ports, airports, and trucking facilities. With studies showing only six states have programs protecting the air quality in lower-income neighborhoods, vehicle electrification can make a dramatic improvement in the health of vulnerable communities.

Economic Growth

EV charging for municipalities will be driving economic growth. Costs associated with operating and maintaining EVs are significantly lower than gas-powered fleets, saving cities money over time. Job growth is another benefit of electrification. Workers are necessary to deploy and maintain the charging infrastructure. The money municipalities save on fuel and vehicle maintenance costs can be funneled back into the local economy.

Energy Security

An estimated 90% of the U.S. transportation industry is powered by oil supplied by the global market. It leaves the United States dependent on other countries for energy. It’s a volatile market with constantly shifting costs. The country also spends billions of dollars protecting its oil supplies and deliveries.

To ensure U.S. energy security, the Drive Electric Campaign is recommending that new sales of electric vehicles reach 100% by 2040. It includes passenger cars, trucks, and buses.

Why EV Charging for Municipalities

City and township leaders have an advantage over their counterparts at the state and federal levels. They have more opportunities to install EV chargers in the municipality with fewer obstacles to overcome.

The benefits from electrification are almost immediate and include decreased GHG emissions, improved public health, energy security, and a boost to the local economy.

Cities are EV Market Leaders

Supported by financial incentives at the local, state, and federal levels, along with rebates from electric vehicle manufacturers and electrical providers, cities can become EV market leaders.

Studies show in 2018, cities were claiming up to 27% of the EV market, compared to the nationwide average of around 10%. Some cities leading the way include Seattle, Portland, and townships across California.

Cities and Towns Can Be Influencers

Cities and towns can push aggressively for electrification across their states by urging policymakers to adopt EV strategies that push for 100% electric vehicles. Local commitments can include ramping up the timeline for electrification. Cities are not obligated to wait for the state to catch up. By taking the initiative, cities can become influencers pushing for complete electrification across the state.

Building Support for Electrification

With cities leading the electric vehicle market, they have multiple opportunities to advance EV charging in municipalities. When city leaders are creating their policies, there are a few factors to consider to help ensure they meet their electrification goals.

1. What are the problems the electrification policy is trying to solve to meet the community’s challenges. For example, air quality, public health, etc.
2. Does the city have the authority to implement the policy? What legislative or administrative route makes the most sense? Will the policy be effective at addressing the challenges associated with installing EV charging infrastructure?
3. What type of support will the policy require for success?
4. Will the benefits outweigh the effort associated with electrification?
5. Do the benefits extend beyond protecting the environment?
6. Does the policy address issues in vulnerable communities?
7. Are there existing policies that can help support electrification?
8. Does the policy show leadership?
9. Does the policy support other community programs?

The answers to these questions will help cities become leaders in the push towards electrification.

Municipality Electrification with Apogee Charging Solutions

We understand that the EV electrification of a municipality can be a scary and daunting task. This is NOT something you want to jump head-first into. Apogee Charging Solutions has dedicated team members that are here to assist your municipality from start to finish. From answering initial questions to, product selection, infrastructure upgrades, installation, and even network management.

To speak with an Apogee Charging Solutions expert about municipality electrification, call 484-816-2076, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your need by clicking the button below.