Electric vehicle charging stations go live at Lewes Ferry Terminal

Delaware River and Bay Authority has announced that the two electric vehicle charging stations at the Lewes Terminal of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry are open for business. The DRBA received the charging stations through a collaborative research program agreement between the University of Delaware and the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. The program, Charging-Up Delaware, is designed to promote a network of charging stations to facilitate long-distance trips with electric vehicles in the State of Delaware.

“The charging stations are really convenient and easy to use,” said Rehoboth Beach resident Laura Trethewey, who was the first customer to use the charging station. “It’s a great service for both locals and ferry customers who are looking for a place to recharge their electric vehicles.”

The level 2 charging stations, which are located in the public parking lot near the passenger terminal building, are available during the Cape May-Lewes Ferry’s business hours. The DRBA maintenance department installed both the charging stations as well as the terminal signage directing electric vehicle owners to their location. These stations are available at no charge, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Charging-Up Delaware program is designed to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles by removing range anxiety, a significant obstacle to the adoption of electric cars. Potential buyers may hesitate to purchase the vehicles for fear that their battery will run out of charge beyond the range of a charging station. Based on studies by UD and other EV research institutions, placing charging stations at key locations will encourage use of electric vehicles, whether used to recharge, or simply to lower anxiety by knowing they are available if needed.

“The ferry is already a tourism magnet, helping more than a million people a year cross the Bay or visit its shoreline,” said Heath Gehrke, director of ferry operations. “We are happy our full-service Lewes terminal now provides the owners of electric vehicles with a bay front haven during their coastal Delaware visit.”

For more information about the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, go to www.CMLF.com.