Drew Wilson
The largest utility company in the state wants to get cars on the grid.
Florida Power & Light announced a new initiative, “FPL EVolution,” that will see them set up electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at more than 100 locations across the state, including public parks, shopping malls and large employers such as Jupiter Medical Center and Office Depot.
The announcement, which coincides with National Drive Electric Week, claims the charging station rollout will boost EV education, infrastructure and adoption.
“We’ve transformed Florida’s clean energy landscape by reducing emissions while keeping customer bills low,” said Eric Silagy, President and CEO of FPL. “Along with our plan to install more than 30 million solar panels by 2030, we’re committed to our comprehensive vision for a more sustainable future through the electrification of transportation.
“Our new FPL EVolution program will help the state significantly expand the amount of EV charging stations, so more Floridians can enjoy the benefits of using electric vehicles — making the state a leader in clean transportation.”
FPL’s plan synergizes with Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proclamation that charging stations will be available at all Florida Turnpike service plazas by the end of the year.
With FPL EVolution bringing 1,000-plus new charging ports and the state adding many more, FPL predicted a boost in consumers’ “range confidence.”
In addition to the FPL EVolution program, the company is promoting the electrification of school buses. In partnership with the city of West Palm Beach, FPL announced the state’s first electric school buses.
The five buses will support the city’s Parks and Recreation Department and also store clean energy to benefit all FPL customers.
FPL said that school buses have predictable schedules that make them ideal for electric “Vehicle to Grid” technology.
When the buses aren’t running morning pick-ups and afternoon drop-offs, the batteries can provide power to the energy grid, including during peak times of the day when it is needed most.
