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Prince William County to boost EV charging options amid fiscal concerns

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[Photo: Prince William County Facebook]

In a significant push towards green energy adoption, Prince William County has announced an ambitious expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities, promising to double the number of available charging stations. This expansion, detailed by Rick Canizales, the county’s Director of Transportation, includes a proposed increase from 14 to 35 stations, providing a total of 70 charging spaces for electric vehicle owners.

“We’re looking to expand our EV charging capabilities significantly,” Canizales stated. “This initiative not only supports our commitment to environmental sustainability but also anticipates the future needs of our community.”

Despite the county’s forward-thinking approach, the decision has sparked debate among residents over the financing of the project. Karl Greten, a resident of the Gainesville District, voiced strong opposition to using taxpayer dollars for the installation of EV charging stations.

“Why should the public fund the infrastructure for a private choice of vehicle?” Greten questioned. “There’s a fundamental issue here regarding the use of county funds for something that benefits a small portion of the population.”

The cost concerns raised by Greten find a basis in the financial disclosures by county officials. The installation of EV charging stations at the McCoart Administration Building cost $237,760, mitigated by a $32,500 rebate from Dominion Energy. The ongoing maintenance and electricity costs for these stations were also outlined, totaling over $21,895 since February 2022.

Amidst these fiscal apprehensions, Loudoun County’s approach to EV charging station fees has been highlighted as a potential model. Starting February 19, 2024, Loudoun County will impose a $2.10 fee per charging session at certain Metrorail Parking Garages.

“This could be a way to balance the financial impact on all taxpayers,” Greten suggested, advocating for a model where EV charging costs are borne by the users rather than the general taxpayer base.

The discussion around EV infrastructure in Prince William County underscores a broader dialogue on environmental responsibility versus fiscal prudence. As the county navigates these waters, officials emphasize the long-term benefits of such investments.

“Adopting EV technology is a step towards reducing our carbon footprint and fostering a sustainable future,” Canizales remarked. “We understand the concerns about the costs and are exploring all avenues to mitigate the impact on our taxpayers.”

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