Prospect Heights Library installs public EV chargers

The Prospect Heights Public Library District has installed four electric vehicle charging stations. These Level 2 chargers are the first publicly accessible EV stations in the city of Prospect Heights and are now available 24/7 in the library’s parking lot.

EV drivers can locate and use the chargers via the ChargePoint network by downloading the ChargePoint app and creating an account. Charging is billed at $0.20 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). An additional $0.10 per minute idle fee after the first hour encourages turnover and ensures availability. The pricing was set to help the library recoup the cost of the installation while still offering a valuable community service.

“This is an exciting new initiative for our community,” said executive director Alex Todd. “We’ve been working towards this since 2015 when former library trustee Ralph Kendall suggested we investigate EVs.”

Board president Marianne Kerr said, “We’re proud to offer this resource for EV drivers. As a library, we believe in investing in the future — and this includes sustainability.”

The total cost of the EV charging station project was $36,355, with funding support expected through a $21,332 rebate from ComEd, making the project more cost-effective for taxpayers.

While charging their vehicles, users are invited to take advantage of the library’s services, including high-speed Wi-Fi, books and media; programs for all ages; and welcoming public spaces like the front courtyard.

For information about the EV charging stations or library programs and services visit phpl.info or contact Alex Todd at (847) 259-3500 or atodd@phpl.info.