Airport News
Continuing the 'geen' theme of this week, Portland International Airport has completed the largest installation of commercial electric vehicle chargers at a US airport.
The Oregon gateway now has 42 electric vehicle charging stations supplied by Telefonix Inc, a technology design and manufacturing company that creates product solutions for highly regulated industries.
The airport says it chose Telefonix's PowerPost level 1 electric vehicle charging stations for their integrated, retractable cord reel, which keeps cables off the ground, reducing maintenance and tripping hazards.
They were also selected because they are level 1 units, which have low current requirements and allow for an efficient use of energy.
Level 1 charging is well suited for long-dwell parking that is typical at airports and workplaces.
The low-current requirements of level 1 also allowed the airport to install more charging stations, compared to more powerful chargers that often require costly upgrades to the electrical supply.
Level 1 charging enables EV drivers to recover about five miles for every hour they are plugged in. The range lost in a typical commute of twenty miles is recovered in about four hours at a cost to the facility of less than 75 cents.
"We are excited to support our travellers and employees with these new EV charging stations," says Vince Granato, Port of Portland's chief operations officer.
"Voted America's Best Airport in 2013, 2014 and 2015 in Travel + Leisure's Reader Survey, we take pride in delivering a memorable and positive experience to those who use our facilities.
"The installation of EV charging stations is one of our many environmental initiatives, which are central to how we do business and serve as good community stewards."
Telefonix EVSE Division's business development manager, Bill Williams, claims that the airport has made a "huge statement" with the installations.
"The electric vehicle movement is gaining steam and will continue to do so. Facilities like PDX are acknowledging this growing community and sending a signal that they support those who are embracing electric vehicles by installing stations for both airport employees and travellers."
He adds: "Airports are really taking an aggressive approach to delivering on the need for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
"Given that customers parking for four hours or more represent over 85% of all occupied spaces at an airport and the fact that airports often have sustainability initiatives in place, it's a perfect fit."
The PowerPost EV charging stations will be free to use for employees and visitors.
