Exelon, a Fortune 100 energy company, recently announced a commitment to join the Electric Highway Coalition (EHC), a partnership among 14 U.S. utilities to create a seamless network of rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The network will connect major highway systems, stretching from the Atlantic Coast through the Midwest, South, and into the Gulf and Central Plains regions.
Exelon's six utility companies — Atlantic City Electric, BGE, ComEd, Delmarva Power, PECO, and Pepco — will join the 13 other coalition utilities that have coordinated to ensure drivers have access to efficient, fast charging stations that expand convenient options for long distance EV travel.
"Protecting our future means ensuring EVs are an affordable, accessible, and reliable transportation option for customers in the communities we serve," said Calvin Butler, CEO of Exelon Utilities. "Our customers and communities want cleaner air and action on climate change — just one reason why we want to make sure rapid charging is as easily available along major highways as traditional gas stations. Our partnership with the EHC will help alleviate range anxiety by creating convenient, rapid charging stations that will give travelers in our communities the confidence to know they can rely on EVs for long distance travel wherever they need to go."
The members of the EHC have agreed to work together to ensure efficient and effective fast charging deployment plans that enable long distance EV travel, avoid duplication, and complement existing corridor fast charging sites. Sites initially will be located less than 100 miles apart on major roadways. Additionally, each site will have at least two charging stations with universal vehicle compatibility and at least 100 kW of output per station. This will enable drivers to get back on the road in 20 to 30 mins. Each member company will determine its own execution methods, specific pricing models, and charging equipment providers for its service territory.
The Edison Electric Institute estimates 18 million EVs will be on U.S. roads by 2030. The progress made by the EHC demonstrates to customers that industry leaders are united in a commitment to ensuring accessibility and convenience for rapid charging stations across an expanded network of major highways.
Exelon intends to electrify half of its utility vehicle fleet by 2030 and will continue to find new ways to partner with leaders across the industry to provide equitable, safe, and sustainable energy and transportation solutions for customers.
In addition, Exelon's utilities continue to actively work with stakeholders to promote the expansion of EV infrastructure and remove barriers to adoption. Through approved programs at each of its utilities, Exelon will enable the installation of more than 7000 residential, commercial, and/or utility-owned charging ports across Maryland, Washington, D.C., Delaware, and New Jersey.
The installations will help jurisdictions achieve climate and zero-emission vehicle goals, improve air quality in their regions, and prepare for the economic opportunities connected to the growing EV market.
