Central City explores EV charger installation through Xcel Energy's rebate program

In a recent Gilpin County Commissioners' meeting, discussions centered around the potential installation of electric vehicle (EV) chargers, highlighting the county's efforts to enhance sustainable transportation options. The meeting, held on February 11, 2025, revealed the county's exploration of various funding opportunities to support this initiative.

Initially, the county sought to participate in a rebate program offered by Xcel Energy, which provides substantial incentives for EV charger installations. However, due to high demand, the program quickly filled up, prompting the county to pivot towards a project at the local library with United Power, which offers fewer incentives. The county is now considering reapplying to Xcel's program, which has reopened, and exploring a state grant through Charge Ahead.

The proposal discussed during the meeting suggests that if the county proceeds with a Level 3 fast charger, the optimal location would be a lot across the street, which is currently under a shared agreement with Central City Opera. The financial implications of this project are significant; estimates indicate that the county could potentially secure over $200,000 worth of charger installations and utility upgrades at minimal cost, possibly between $0 and $10,000.

The commissioners expressed cautious optimism about the project, recognizing the potential benefits for both the county and visitors to Central City. The discussion also touched on the need for a long-term lease agreement with Central City Opera to ensure public access to the proposed charging facilities.

Additional considerations included the ongoing costs associated with maintaining the chargers, which could involve power usage and potential maintenance issues, such as software malfunctions or vandalism. The county aims to gather more data from the library's ongoing charger project to better understand these costs before making a final decision.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to advancing electric vehicle infrastructure, aligning with broader environmental goals while also addressing the growing demand for EV charging options in the region. The commissioners plan to revisit the proposal once more detailed financial assessments are available, ensuring that any decision made will be in the best interest of the community.