PORTLAND — The Gulf of Maine Research Institute announced the opening of 10 level-two electric vehicle chargers for public use at its parking lot at 350 Commercial St., marking the first publicly available EV charging station of this size on Portland’s waterfront.
The charging stations, which completed construction in late July and underwent a brief pilot period, are now available to all members of the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“Coastal electrification and other energy solutions will offer our region environmental, economic and community benefits,” said Glenn Prickett, CEO/president. “We’re pleased to demonstrate that work on our own property — walking the walk by offering public charging infrastructure here on Commercial St.”
The project represents progress toward the institute’s recently announced five-year strategic plan and its “Supporting Energy Solutions” initiative, which aims to create a lower-carbon economy and improve the resilience of electrical infrastructure.
Public charging rates are structured to accommodate different usage patterns:
- 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.: $5 per hour parking fee plus 22 cents per kilowatt-hour
- 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.: 25 cents per kilowatt-hour with no parking fee
The nine-month project received funding from a combination of sources, including a grant from Efficiency Maine, a tax credit from the federal Inflation Reduction Act, and support from GMRI Board Member David Smith. Revision Energy served as the installation partner and provided additional project advisory services.
The launch comes as the institute, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, continues to expand its work addressing climate change impacts on coastal communities and marine ecosystems in one of the fastest-warming ocean regions on Earth.
Located in Portland, Maine, the Gulf of Maine Research Institute is an independent, nonpartisan marine nonprofit. The institute’s mission is to develop and deliver collaborative solutions to global ocean challenges — ensuring the ecosystem, economy, and communities of the Gulf of Maine region thrive amid rapid change. For more information, visit www.gmri.org.
