Electric Vehicle Study Could Bring More Charging Stations To Union Co.

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Union County is promoting a transition to green energy, as it plans to create a network of electric vehicle charging stations across the county.

The county recently a launched an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Study to determine where charging stations should be located based on areas of highest demand and need.

New Jersey has seen an increase in electric vehicle sales in recent years, thanks to support from federal and state incentives, and this growth is expected to continue, according to county officials.

The state has set a goal for Dec. 2023 to have 330,000 registered passenger electric vehicles in New Jersey and at least 400 public fast chargers, at no fewer than 200 locations. The state has a further goal of 2 million registered electric vehicles by Dec. 2035.

Union County's study will help develop a plan for the installation of electric vehicle chargers over the next 10 years to meet New Jersey's goals during this time period.

The study will collect and analyze data, and with public input, recommend a network of locations for Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers.

"By planning for more public charging locations, Union County will be in a better position to support residents and make [electric vehicles] a viable choice as they become more affordable and popular," the county stated.

There are three levels of Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) or chargers, according to the county.

• Level 1 charging is the slowest and lowest cost option and can run off existing household electrical outlets.
• Level 2 needs the type of outlet used by refrigerators and other heavy appliances.
• Level 3 or Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) is a specially built power source, which cannot be supported by a home’s power supply.

Union County's study will focus on Level 2 and DCFC chargers, which would be publicly accessible.

Residents can complete this short survey and mapping exercise about their travel patters to help the county plan an electric vehicle infrastructure network to best fit each community.

You can also contact Project Manager Liza Betz at ebetz@ucnj.org.

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