The Department of Planning and Development (DPD), in partnership with the United Teen Equality Center (UTEC) was recently awarded funding through the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) for the installation of Lowell’s first publicly accessible electric vehicle charging station.
The station was installed last week in front of UTEC’s Green Building (expected to be LEED Platinum Certified) located along Warren Street, and can accommodate two electric vehicles simultaneously. Parking at the spaces is limited to those wishing to charge their vehicles, though the fee for use of the station itself will be waived. UTEC is donating the electric power needed to operate the charging station through a 34 KW photo-voltaic panel system installed on their roof. The Warren Street site is a perfect location due to its highly visible and centralized location in the City’s downtown, as well as its proximity to UTEC’s new green building.
The Executive Director of UTEC, Gregg Croteau, is thrilled to showcase the city’s first public station in front of the organization’s new building, and plans to acquire an electric vehicle soon for UTEC’s use. Croteau believes, “having the station in this spot symbolizes not only our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint, but to educate the community about the merits of sustainable living.”
City Manager Bernard Lynch agrees and “looks forward to working in collaboration with UTEC to encourage use of the station, further promote Lowell as a sustainable city, and continue to build upon Lowell’s many accomplishments as a Green Community.” Recently, the Department of Energy Resources presented Lowell with a Leading by Example Award for its investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency citywide. Current efforts underway include the implementation of a $21M performance contract and power purchase agreement, and the retrofitting of 35 buildings containing over 2.2M square feet of historic property in the downtown through the Better Buildings Program, among other initiatives.
During the construction of UTEC’s building, the charging station will be made available upon request. Those inquiring about public access can contact UTEC directly at 978-856-9300. After construction is complete (expected later in this Fall), electric vehicle owners are encouraged to use the station as they would an ordinary parking space.
For additional information, please contact Allegra Williams, Neighborhood Planner, Department of Planning and Development, City of Lowell at
978-674-4252.
We just used your EV station today to charge our Nissan Leaf, while we explored the Historic Park. We had a great time and thank you for the use of your charging station.