Arapahoe County planning for an increase in electric vehicles
Arapahoe County envisions more electric vehicle charging stations in the years ahead, with the county’s commissioners expressing optimism that residents will continue to buy electric vehicles – everything from cars to e-bikes. That has led the county’s elected leaders to adopt a new Regional Electric Vehicle Action Plan that provides a roadmap for how the county will play a role in supporting the anticipated growth.
“With this plan, we have the necessary tools available so we can be prepared as more of our residents make the shift to vehicles that provide cleaner air,” said Carrie Warren-Gully, chair of the Board, in a statement. “Our municipal partners can also follow our lead and utilize this plan as a model for making decisions at the local level.”
Arapahoe’s action plan, firmed up in May, identifies strategies for increasing outreach and education about the benefits of switching to electric-powered vehicles. It also speaks about adding charging stations, supporting the purchase or lease of electric government and fleet vehicles and expanding access to e-bikes and e-scooters.
The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) predicts between 21,000 and 30,000 electric vehicles will be on the road by 2025. There are currently 13,150 in Arapahoe County. Those numbers will continue to increase as federal and state policies offer tax incentives and charging infrastructure expands.
According to Colorado’s Energy Office, “Multiple studies confirm Colorado will see significant economic benefits with higher levels of electric vehicle adoption including driver savings, downward pressure on electric rates which benefits all ratepayers, and significant reductions in ozone and greenhouse gas pollution.”
Colorado has been dubbed a national leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and tackling climate change. The state is 84% of the way to achieving its 2030 gas emissions reduction goal, which Gov. Jared Polis’ administration set last year. With targeted efforts to fund and promote clean energy projects, the state plans to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
As part of that plan, Polis signed several bills in May aimed at protecting Colorado’s air quality. Senate Bill 24-032 expands the state’s transportation network so fewer people depend on cars. SB24-229 will reduce noxious oxide emissions from oil and gas companies by 50% by 2023 compared to 2017.
Another bill, SB24-230, places fees on oil and gas production to fund public transition and protect wildlife habitats.
“Today, we are taking bold action to protect our environment and set Colorado on a path for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future,” Polis said in a statement.
“This landmark legislation brought together the oil and gas industry and environmental advocates to protect our air quality while making historic investments in public transportation. I am excited to see the ways these investments will improve our air quality and modernize transportation and transit in our great state.”
Arapahoe County has a total land area of 800 square miles, and several major highways, including Interstates 25, 70 and 225. The Regional Transportation District light rail system also runs through the region, making it a critical travel corridor for the state.
Today, the county has 378 public charging ports. Yet, with the number of households expected to grow by 31% in the next 15 years, the state predicts the county will need 3,100 public charging ports to serve the increased demand for electric vehicles.
