Hawaii to Get AeroVironment Chargers

As one of the most naturally green states in the Union, Hawaii was bound to be a major first adopter of the electric vehicles. The state's government has already signed different deals with EV manufacturers, and is now getting ready to get the infrastructure in place to support the deployment of Leafs, Codas and other electric models.

The state announced this week it had selected one of the biggest charging solutions providers in the US, AeroVironment, as one of the main providers of charging ports for Hawaii's EVs. The company will be deploying its chargers on the state's Oahu, Hawaii, Maui and Kauai islands.

In all, Hawaii will be funding the deployment of 320 AeroVironment 240-volt stations, in an effort that will place the islands at the top of the list of US and world states that have an extensive EV infrastructure in place.

“We look forward to working with AeroVironment to help reduce the use of oil for transportation,” said Robbie Alm, Hawaiian Electric executive vice president.

“Wide use of electric vehicles will not only help reduce our fossil fuel dependence, it will make it easier to increase our use of renewable energy sources such as wind power and others, all contributing to our energy, economic and environmental security.”

In addition to supporting the charging solution company, the state of Hawaii will also be backing the purchase of EVs by offering a rebate of up to $4,500. Individuals who want to install charging stations at their homes will also be offered a rebate of $500.