The lack of readily available opportunities to charge Electric Vehicles (EV)'s is frequently cited by potential EV buyers and is one of the primary barriers to market adoption of EVs. Consumers need to feel confident that they can re-fuel EVs as easily as they can do with gasoline-powered vehicles.
In general this EV program is intended to:
- Benefit City residents.
- Help to overcome barriers to adoption of EV use.
- Reduce the emission of Greenhouse gases.
- Contribute to the progression of advanced mobility.
City of Stuart Comprehensive Plan
Objective 17. - [Greenhouse gas emission reduction.]
The City shall pursue and support transportation systems (e.g. high-speed rail, express buses, high-occupancy vehicles, bikeways) that reduce air quality degradation and help conserve energy.
The proposed Code amendment uses the following definitions based on best practice recommendations:
Electric Vehicle (EV): Any vehicle that operates exclusively on electrical energy from an off-board source that is stored in the vehicle’s batteries, and produces zero tailpipe emissions or pollution when stationary or operating.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS): A parking space that is equipped to allow an EV to re-charge.
Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI): Equipment provided to support future electric vehicle charging. This shall include, but not be limited to; the design of electrical panels and service equipment to support the additional electrical demand, the panel capacity to support additional feeder / branch circuits, the installation of raceways, both underground and surface mounted, to support the electrical vehicle supply equipment.
Electric Vehicle Charging Rate (EVCR): The rate at which an electric vehicle is charged:
Level-1 is considered slow charging. Voltage including the range up to 120v.
Level-2 is considered medium charging. Voltage is greater than 120v and includes 240v.
Level-3 is considered fast or rapid charging. Voltage is greater than 240v.
It is proposed that a minimum EVCI parking space requirement shall be required for all new commercial development over 5,000 square feet and all new residential development greater than 50 dwelling units.
This ordinance was reviewed by the Local Planning Agency at their July 16th, 2020 meeting. The LPA approved the item unanimously. Comments from the LPA have been taken into account and where appropriate incorporated into the ordinance.