The Los Alamos County Board of Public Utilities is taking a closer look at the future of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, as discussions during the recent work session highlighted low utilization rates of existing chargers and plans for expansion.

Currently, the utilization of the Lehi 3 chargers is notably low, prompting Public Works to propose the installation of six new Level 2 chargers in the municipal parking lot. This initiative aims to replace the existing free chargers, which may be contributing to the low usage as residents opt for free power over paid options. “After this project is completed, we’ll have a better handle on utilization,” a board member noted, emphasizing the need for data to inform future decisions.

The meeting also addressed the financial implications of the current charging infrastructure. The demand charges associated with the Level 3 chargers are significantly higher than the rates being charged to customers, leading to a recommendation to maintain current rates until more data is available. The board discussed the average monthly demand costs, which are around $774 for Los Alamos and $754 for White Rock, indicating that the current pricing structure is not sustainable.

In addition to the EV charging discussion, the board reviewed proposed changes to the fee schedule, including an increase in the deposit for fire hydrant meters and adjustments to construction fees due to rising costs. The fee for commercial net meter applications will rise from $550 to $700, reflecting the increased expenses associated with electric distribution.

As the county moves forward with these initiatives, the board is hopeful that the new Level 2 chargers will encourage greater EV adoption and usage, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and financially viable charging network. The anticipated outcomes from these discussions will be revisited in six months, allowing the board to assess the impact of the changes and make informed decisions moving forward.