Seaside Heights is home to many attractions: the beach, the boardwalk and most recently electric vehicle charging stations! In 2018, six dual-port electric vehicle charging stations were constructed in Seaside Heights to satisfy the Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP) requirements of a settlement agreement with the Department’s Air Compliance & Enforcement program. Four of these charging stations can be found at 55 Grant Ave while the remaining 2 can be found at 21 Hancock Ave. Together, these charging stations have the capability of charging up to 12 hybrid and electric vehicles.  SEP funds were also used to post signage advertising the location of the new EV charging stations.

Electric vehicle owners will pay a discounted parking rate while their vehicles are charging in either of the municipal parking lots. Both charging station locations are within 1 block of the beach, boardwalk and other attractions, providing EV owners a prime charging/parking location during the busy summer months. While charging their vehicles, EV owners can track their vehicles battery percentage and the amount of greenhouse gas emissions avoided on the ChargePoint App. The app is accessible to both Apple and Android users and allows users to find charging stations near them.

Within the next 5 years, it is estimated the charging stations will prevent the emission of about 300 pounds of volatile organic compounds that contribute to ozone and smog as well as about 50 tons of carbon dioxide. Each ton of carbon dioxide avoided is equivalent to planting roughly 24 trees, according to the ChargePoint App. The decrease in emissions means better air quality, improved public health and reduced ecological damage for the community of Seaside Heights Borough, all its visitors and the planet!

Photos courtesy of Matthew Mee, Chapman Environmental Services