CHARGED Electric Vehicles Magazine – July-August 2019

(Michael S) #1

JUL/AUG 2019 69


EV Connect is now a qualified EV charging infrastruc-
ture provider under the Charging Forward program
from Michigan-based utility DTE Energy. As part of the
program, EV Connect will offer chargers to DTE cus-
tomers and help integrate EV charging loads with DTE’s
distribution system.
DTE’s Charging Forward program sets aside $10
million to build out approximately 1,000 charge ports
around the state of Michigan. The program will also
assist transit agencies, school districts, and other fleet
operators in the transition to EVs, and provide technical
expertise around EV network management and fleet
deployment.
EV Connect produces an open-standards-based
charging platform for managing networks of charging
stations and their interaction with utilities. EV Connect
offers its network and site-owner customers the option
to choose from a large selection of charging stations
through the company’s certification program. EV drivers
enjoy real-time access to station status through the EV
Connect driver app, and utilities can manage demand
response to ensure maximum control over EV charging
loads.
“Charging Forward will continue to accelerate DTE’s
engagement in the EV market to further understand EV
drivers, EV loads and their relationship to overall system
load, and the associated impacts on the distribution
system,” said Jordan Ramer, CEO of EV Connect. “EV
Connect is building a centralized infrastructure for a
future in which everyone from EV drivers to utilities can
maximize the benefits and opportunities presented by
the large-scale electrification of transportation.”


Charging network operator Electrify America has
installed more than 120 ultra-fast charging stations at
Walmart stores across 34 states. The company plans to
continue installing charging stations at Walmart loca-
tions in urban areas in 46 states across the US.
The charging stations feature 150 kW and 350 kW DC
fast chargers. Most of the stations are strategically located
at Walmart stores off major highways, with dozens more
planned for major metro areas.
Electrify America is investing $2 billion over the next
ten years in EV infrastructure and education. In total, it
plans to deploy more than 2,000 chargers across 484 sites
on highways and 17 metropolitan areas.
“This milestone marks an important moment in the
expansion of our charging station network,” said Bren-
dan Jones, COO at Electrify America. “We look forward
to continuing our work with Walmart to make electric
vehicle charging faster and more convenient for con-
sumers across the country, and in turn, encourage more
adoption of zero-emission vehicles.”

EV Connect to build charging


infrastructure for Michigan


utility DTE Energy


Electrify America installs 120


ultra-fast charging stations at


Walmart stores, with plans for


more


Image courtesy of Electrify America
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