EZ Ride, known for filling gaps in New Jersey’s public transportation system for commuters for years, is now working to bridge the gap for a different type of commuter: electric vehicle drivers.
EZ Ride is leading the charge to increase the number of EV charging stations at workplaces across New Jersey.
“More and more EV drivers are expecting to charge up while they’re at work,” EZ Ride CEO Krishna Murthy said. “For workplaces who don’t have them, now is the time to take advantage of all the funding the state is offering to help build them.”
EZ Ride’s consulting role aligns with the N.J. Department of Environmental Protection’s initiative to cut emissions 80% by the year 2050. The non-profit is acting as a go-between, connecting New Jersey workplaces with state grant and rebate programs as well as making introductions to trusted charging station installers and other incentives.
The other incentives include the national recognition that comes with certification by EVAL (Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership).
“EVAL is what LEED certification is for architecture,” Murthy said. “It shows that your company is dedicated to environmental efforts, which has been shown to help recruit and retain employees who value those efforts.
“Businesses who want to build charging stations as well as those who already have them, like apartment buildings, are encouraged to get certified.”
Certification is free until Oct. 31. Fees start Nov. 1.
Murthy said EZ Ride plans to install ten EV chargers in its new parking lot this fall, with more to come. It’s also working to transition its shuttle fleet from gas to electric, which will be a long-term roll-out. The first batch of five EV shuttles are expected on the roads by the end of 2024.
