Washington State joint action agency Energy Northwest is collaborating with the cities of Bingen and Goldendale, the Port of Skamania County and to Fort Vancouver Libraries to strengthen the electric vehicle charging infrastructure on State Route 14 in Washington State along the Columbia River Gorge.
The joint initiative aims to address the current gap in the EV charging network by installing new direct current fast chargers in key locations including Bingen, Goldendale and Stevenson.
Each of the participating communities were awarded a grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce for the implementation of an EV station.
Energy Northwest will lead the coordination, construction, and installation of the charging stations and will assume ownership of the stations upon completion.
The project addresses the absence of Direct Current fast charging options along SR-14, a well-traveled route that has seen limited EV infrastructure development.
The initiative seeks to fill that void by introducing charging stations. Spanning east-west along the north side of the Columbia River, SR-14 offers travelers a scenic alternative to Interstate 84 in Oregon.
Each new station will include one DC Fast Charger and additional Level 2 chargers in Goldendale and Stevenson. “With strategically placed locations, the project aims to provide a corridor for EV drivers to travel without range anxiety while supporting local tourism and economic growth,” Energy Northwest said.
Construction is slated to begin this year, with an anticipated completion date in 2025.
“The initiative emphasizes Energy Northwest's commitment to helping Washington meet its clean energy and transportation goals in partnership with local communities and government entities,” Energy Northwest said.
When the stations are online, they will be available for drivers to find on the PlugShare website and mobile app.
