Cleco Power and town of Washington unveil public electric vehicle charging station
Town using charging station to attract visitors, boost local economy
PINEVILLE, La. – Oct. 12, 2023 – Today, Cleco Power and the town of Washington revealed the town’s new level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging station located next to the police department, making Washington one of the first small towns off Interstate 49 to offer free public charging to EV owners.
“The EV industry is growing at a rapid pace because of the economic and environmental benefits,” said Richard Biedenharn, EV program manager for Cleco. “Thus, investing in EV charging infrastructure is a smart move because it will help grow the charging station network as well as boost tourism and spending in small towns.”
Washington’s level 2 charger can add 25 to 50 miles of range per hour and can be easily found using an EV’s navigation system and mobile phone app.
“Our strategy is to tap into this new market and use it to attract visitors and grow our local economy,” said Mayor Dwight Landreneau. “We’re right off a major interstate, so our new charging station is easily accessible to travelers. Visitors can eat and shop while charging their EV at no cost.”
“Partnering with our local communities is also a great way to educate the public on the benefits and capabilities of EVs,” said Sabrina Salling, governmental services representative for Cleco. “From personal vehicles to work trucks, our research shows that there are more EV models available at local dealerships than ever before.”
Cleco Power’s EV was on display at the event for residents, business leaders and government officials.
PINEVILLE, La. – Oct. 12, 2023 – Today, Cleco Power and the town of Washington revealed the town’s new level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging station located next to the police department, making Washington one of the first small towns off Interstate 49 to offer free public charging to EV owners.
“The EV industry is growing at a rapid pace because of the economic and environmental benefits,” said Richard Biedenharn, EV program manager for Cleco. “Thus, investing in EV charging infrastructure is a smart move because it will help grow the charging station network as well as boost tourism and spending in small towns.”
Washington’s level 2 charger can add 25 to 50 miles of range per hour and can be easily found using an EV’s navigation system and mobile phone app.
“Our strategy is to tap into this new market and use it to attract visitors and grow our local economy,” said Mayor Dwight Landreneau. “We’re right off a major interstate, so our new charging station is easily accessible to travelers. Visitors can eat and shop while charging their EV at no cost.”
“Partnering with our local communities is also a great way to educate the public on the benefits and capabilities of EVs,” said Sabrina Salling, governmental services representative for Cleco. “From personal vehicles to work trucks, our research shows that there are more EV models available at local dealerships than ever before.”
Cleco Power’s EV was on display at the event for residents, business leaders and government officials.