Energy Northwest, a Washington State electricity agency, announced new charging stations along the White Pass Scenic Byway on Tuesday.
The agency has been involved in developing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure since 2016 and has developed 10 EV charging stations in Eastern Washington. Energy Northwest views the White Pass Scenic Byway stations as a chance to “bridge the charging gap between eastern and western parts of the state.”
“Highway 12 is integral for east to west travel … It’s designated as an underserved corridor for EV drivers” said Energy Northwest Project Developer Jennifer Harper.
The White Pass Scenic Byway project is a collaboration between Energy Northwest and several other entities, including the Lewis County Public Utility District.
The agency received nearly $2 million in grants from the state Department of Commerce and the TransAlta Coal Transition Fund for the station.
“Transportation is Washington’s largest source of polluting greenhouse gas emissions, and the 2021 State Energy Strategy emphasizes the essential need to improve the design and operation of our state’s transportation networks… The White Pass Scenic Byway is a beautiful drive and there are amazing recreational opportunities all along the way” said Michael Furze, assistant director of the commerce department.
Each station will have a sign highlighting local attractions and information.
The stations are planned to open by the end of the year.
