Summary
– City of Missoula sharpening Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan to prepare for changes in transportation and technology
– Number of EVs in Missoula County doubled between 2021 and 2022, with over 615 registered
– City and county leaders exploring ways to expand charging opportunities to expedite EV adoption
– Challenges include lack of infrastructure, potential trip hazards, and state legislation imposing taxes on EV charging stations
– Efforts towards carbon reduction, federal incentives, and code reforms are key to supporting wider adoption of EVs
Article
The City of Missoula is focusing on improving its Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan as the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow in the area. More than 615 EVs are now registered in Missoula County, and the city is looking at ways to support residents who want to make the switch to electric vehicles. The Transportation Policy Coordinating Committee and Metropolitan Planning Organization are exploring ways to expand charging opportunities, with the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan expected to be adopted later this year. The plan may include providing access to outlets across sidewalks and on city-owned lamp posts to make charging more convenient for residents without off-street parking.
One of the challenges facing the city is figuring out how to provide charging infrastructure for residents who park on the street. Running cords across the sidewalk to access charging plugs is not ideal, as it can create trip hazards and other issues. However, the city is looking at creative solutions to ensure that charging infrastructure is accessible and affordable for all residents. With goals of achieving 100% clean electricity and reducing carbon emissions, the city and county are committed to facilitating the wider adoption of electric vehicles. Montana’s grid breakdown currently shows a 65% reduction in Co2 pollution from driving electric vehicles, and as the region moves towards cleaner electricity options, the level of pollution is expected to decrease further.
Federal legislation, such as the Clean Vehicle Tax Credit and the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, is helping to incentivize the adoption of electric vehicles. However, state legislation in Montana has placed restrictions on EVs, including a tax on charging stations and additional registration fees based on weight. These regulations can be restrictive to EV adoption and pose challenges for entities looking to provide subsidized charging options. The lack of EV infrastructure in new construction and the absence of substantial consideration for EVs in city policy and code also present barriers to adoption.
The city is exploring opportunities to address these challenges through code reform, incentives, and permits for across-sidewalk charging. By revising zoning and building codes and considering infrastructure for residents without off-street parking, the city aims to make EV adoption as equitable and accessible as possible. With a focus on reducing vehicle emissions and working towards carbon neutrality, the city is committed to supporting the transition to electric vehicles. By enhancing EV infrastructure and addressing regulatory barriers, Missoula hopes to continue its progress towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system.
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