Potomac Edison launches EV Charging Station Programme in Maryland

Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., recently launched a new programme featuring publicly available electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, rebates for both residential and multifamily charger installations, and incentives for EV charging during off-peak hours.

“EV Driven,” a five-year commission-approved pilot programme, will benefit the state's environment by reducing auto emissions.

As part of the programme, Potomac Edison will install 59 charging stations, including both Level 2 and DC Fast charging stations, which will be available for public use throughout its Maryland service area. Charging station installations are planned to begin in the coming weeks.

The programme also provides a $300 rebate for qualified Level 2 EV charging stations for residential customers and a 50% rebate for the cost of qualified Level 2 and DC Fast charging stations at multifamily properties, up to $5,000. In addition, residential customers can sign up to earn gift card incentives for using their qualifying EV charging station during off-peak times.

“The EV Driven programme will help make electric vehicle charging in Maryland more accessible, convenient and affordable,” said James Sears, President of Maryland Operations for FirstEnergy. “We're excited to support Maryland'sefforts toward electric vehicle adoption and to expand the charging station network as we continue providing safe, reliable and affordable service to our customers.”

The pilot programme was approved by the Maryland Public Service Commission in January 2019 and includes additional EV charging station installations from other Maryland utilities to support a state-wide effort toward reaching 300,000 zero-emission vehicles on the road by 2025. The pilot is intended to help Maryland utilities evaluate the benefits of EV charging deployment while remaining cost-effective for customers.

Electric vehicles offer a clean, efficient alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles, averaging as low as one-third the cost-per-mile of gasoline. Depending on the battery capacity, EV driving range can vary from about 80 miles up to 280 miles. The installation of public charging stations through the pilot programme will help reduce “range anxiety” for EV owners, as well as provide key data to help determine future implementation efforts throughout Maryland and other areas served by FirstEnergy's utilities.

Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., serves about 270,000 customers in seven Maryland counties.