Mesa, Arizona, is taking a proactive stance in making electric vehicle (EV) charging stations more accessible and convenient for its residents. The city recently launched a Request for Information (RFI) to gather industry expertise and best practices for deploying a comprehensive public EV charging network.
This initiative comes on the heels of a $11.8 million grant awarded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program. The grant will enable Mesa to add at least 48 new charging ports across the city, significantly expanding its existing infrastructure.
Building a Future-Proof Network
“This RFI reflects our commitment to developing a robust EV charging network that not only meets our current needs but also anticipates future growth,” said Mesa Mayor John Giles. “The CFI grant ensures that residents and businesses throughout Mesa will have convenient access to charging stations.”
Currently, Mesa boasts at least 49 public EV charging stations with 118 ports, catering to over 3,200 residents who have already made the switch to electric vehicles. The CFI grant funding will bolster this network by 40%, strategically placing new charging options based on the needs identified in Mesa’s Community Electric Vehicle Action Plan.
A Multi-Tiered Approach
Mesa’s vision for its enhanced EV charging network encompasses several key components:
- Neighborhood Charging Hubs: These hubs, featuring Level 2 and DC Fast Charging (DCFC) ports, will offer a combination of 16 ports at 19kW and 8 ports at 50-60kW, along with dedicated e-bike charging stations. Four such hubs will be established throughout the city.
- Fast Charging Hubs: Designed for rapid charging, these hubs will provide 8 DCFC ports capable of delivering 150-180kW, ideal for longer trips or quick top-ups. Two Fast Charging Hubs are planned.
- Public Fleet Charging Hubs: Catered specifically to municipal electric vehicles, these hubs will include 16 DCFC ports – 8 at 150-180kW and 8 at 50-60kW – to keep Mesa’s green fleet charged and operational.
Seeking Industry Collaboration
By issuing the RFI, Mesa seeks valuable insights from industry leaders. The information gathered will be instrumental in shaping the deployment strategy for the new charging stations, ensuring they are efficient, user-friendly, and cater to the diverse needs of Mesa’s EV drivers.
This initiative positions Mesa as a leader in sustainable transportation, paving the way for a future where electric vehicles are a seamless part of the city’s landscape.
