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Your Guide to Electric Vehicle Resilience Funding In North Carolina

The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center (NCCETC) has unveiled a vital new resource titled, “Electric Vehicle Resilience Funding in North Carolina: Grants, Rebates, and Tax Credits,” offering a lifeline to both commercial and public sector entities delving into electric vehicle (EV) adoption and infrastructure development. 

This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the array of incentives available for EV purchases and charging station installations statewide. From federal grants to utility-funded initiatives, the document outlines numerous financial avenues for those eager to embrace sustainable transportation solutions.

Empowering Electric Vehicle Resilience

In the dynamic landscape of sustainable transportation, the rise of EVs represents a shift towards cleaner, more efficient modes of travel. As the United States pursues steps to decarbonize the transportation sector, the importance of bolstering the resilience and reliability of support infrastructure has become increasingly apparent. 

In an era marked by the escalating impact of natural disasters, the vulnerability of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure stands out as a pressing concern. With hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other calamities increasing in frequency and intensity, safeguarding the resilience of our transportation systems becomes paramount. No longer is it solely about embracing cleaner modes of travel; it’s about ensuring the viability of these alternatives even in the face of calamity.

Fortunately, legislators on federal, state, and local levels have recognized the critical importance of incentivizing EV adoption and infrastructure development. Through the enactment of various direct financial incentives, they aim to provide market certainty and facilitate the accelerated deployment of clean transportation technologies. These initiatives not only drive innovation but also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and forging a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Strategic utilization of available funding holds the key to establishing a robust and accessible EV charging network throughout North Carolina. By strategically locating charging stations, we can ensure convenience and reliability, encouraging individuals to embrace sustainable transportation options in their daily lives. This not only enhances accessibility but also promotes inclusivity, making EVs a viable choice for all members of the community.

NCCETC recently partnered with the Upper Coastal Plains Council of Governments to spearhead initiatives aimed at enhancing the resiliency of EV infrastructure in the Upper Coastal Plains region of North Carolina. A key component of this initiative was the introduction of a webinar series designed to disseminate crucial information on electric vehicle infrastructure resilience, particularly in the face of natural disasters. Tailored specifically to the dynamics of Eastern North Carolina, these webinars served as an invaluable resource for the region, equipping stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions.

By harnessing the power of financial incentives and funding, we can accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient transportation ecosystem in North Carolina and beyond.

Walker Auto Parts Drives into the Future: A Success Story of Electrifying a Fleet

The North Carolina Clean Energy Technology Center (NCCETC) partnered with Walker Auto and Truck to embark on a transformative journey to electrify their fleet. North Carolina-based Walker Auto and Truck, a family-run auto parts company with a rich 50-year history, has not only embraced its legacy but is also steering into the future with an innovative and eco-friendly approach.

In 2021, NCCETC provided information to Walker Auto and Truck to help them navigate funding opportunities. Walker and Auto Truck then submitted a grant application to secure funding to incorporate its first fully-electric vehicle – a Chevy Volt into the company fleet. The company installed Level 2 chargers for overnight charging, with public charging stations added to one of their stores in Wilmington, NC. 

The shift to electric vehicles (EVs) has been a financial boon, with owner Nat Walker noting, “The offset in fuel costs we experienced is astounding. Our goal is to migrate over to an electric and hybrid fleet.”

The positive outcomes of this shift are evident: a two-year pilot with the Chevy Bolt demonstrated remarkable performance, covering an average of 280 miles per week and offsetting gasoline costs significantly. Now, Walker Auto and Truck is not only changing the face of fleet replacements by considering plug-in electric and hybrid vehicles, but they are also actively engaging and encouraging others who are considering the transition to EVs. The company has participated in several events organized by NCCETC, showcasing their EV success story and contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable business practices and clean transportation.

Walker offered this advice to other businesses considering a shift to EVs in their fleet, “Don’t be afraid or panic.” Walker emphasized the importance of thorough investigation, testing and strategic planning. 

Constantly seeking incentive funding at various levels of government has enabled Walker Auto and Truck to offset costs and expand their business strategies. Using a proactive approach to secure funding demonstrates the potential for other organizations to align sustainability with their economic growth.

Additionally, Walker Auto and Truck found that ensuring anyone operating the EVs receives training is a key practice to help employees familiarize themselves with the vehicle’s features. Monitoring battery charge in an EV to prevent it from dropping below 20% is imperative to keep the vehicle running smoothly and avoid any charging issues. 

Riding the success of the new addition to their fleet, Walker Auto and Truck have expanded the scope of their business by venturing into consulting services. Under the new venture, EV Walker Charging Solutions, the company provides consulting services for the installation of charging stations in single and multi-family residential areas. 

When looking to the future, Walker anticipates growing demand from the public and service departments at Walker Auto and Truck for EV maintenance and parts as vehicles exceed the life of their warranties and as incentives for EVs extend to include previously-owned vehicles. 

The success story of Walker Auto and Truck’s journey towards electrifying their fleets serves as a testament to the possibilities for traditional business to embrace sustainable practices and technologies. Learn more about electric vehicles and if this option could be right for your fleet at www.cleantransportation.org.

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