Whether you roll with a Nissan LEAF, a Chevrolet Bolt or a Tesla Model X, electric car owners now have 20 spots on the Siena campus to charge their green-friendly vehicles.
The 10 electric charging stations, each with two charging ports, align well with the College’s commitment to sustainability, and are an added convenience for students and employees who drive the increasingly popular electric vehicles, according to Mark Frost, assistant vice president for facilities management.
The $200,000+ price tag for the stations was almost completely defrayed by incentive grants offered by National Grid and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). They were installed by Apex Solar of Queensbury, NY.
As of July 23, most of the stations are operational. The parking spaces will soon be painted green to indicate they are for EV charging only. A detailed policy on charger use is currently being developed by Public Safety and will be shared soon in the Daily Digests.
The stations are located in:
- Siena Hall Lot M (4 stations)
- Foy Hall Lot L (4)
- Morrell Science Center Lot F (4)
- Marcelle Athletic Center Lot W (2)
- Athletic Fields Lot U (6)
“The charging stations across campus are an exciting way for the College to support those in our campus community who wish to reduce their carbon footprint by driving electric.”
Mark Frost, assistant vice president for facilities management
Siena’s charging stations are currently intended only for members of the College community or visitors to campus, and as such they will not appear on public listings such as PlugShare. This policy is subject to change once campus usage patterns are determined.
“I’m happy to charge at home, but I’m also grateful to know I can charge here if needed. I also think the EV chargers align nicely with our many Siena missions, including environmental sustainability. The chargers will now be part of the campus culture, and will take some of the mystery out of owning one of these vehicles."
Jennifer Dorsey, Ph.D., professor of history
“The new charging stations really add a service to the Siena community. EVs with zero output emissions fall right in line with Siena's commitments to sustainability. They are no longer just a niche market – even Pope Francis has an all-electric popemobile! All major auto manufacturers are embracing the change. The electrification of America (and Siena) is underway and that's exciting.”
Jim Garbaini, assistant director of user services in ITS