Fast-Charging EV Stations Open At Batavia Public Library

BATAVIA, IL — New fast-charging stations for electric vehicles have opened at the Batavia Public Library.

The four chargers mark the second set of Level 3 EV chargers in Batavia. In October, four were installed for public use at Batavia High School.

Also known as superchargers, the Level 3 categorization indicates they're the fastest and most powerful type of EV charger, capable of fully recharging a car's battery in 30-45 minutes.

The $575,000 project was partly funded by a $320,000 Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Driving a Cleaner Illinois grant administered through the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. The grant covers installation and maintenance, city officials said. The remaining expenses will be covered by the Batavia Electric Utility.

"Over the last couple of years, we’ve seen steady growth in the number of residents installing home EV chargers, and we're excited to now offer fast Level 3 charging for both residents and visitors," Steve Allen, superintendent of the Batavia Electric Utility, said in a statement. "The IEPA grant played a key role in helping us advance our strategic goals and expand access to electric vehicle charging."

The Batavia Public Library was selected to house the new chargers since the site met grant eligibility requirements and "reflects the long-standing partnership between the Library and the City of Batavia," the city said in a news release.

As part of their agreement, the city managed the installation and will oversee the operation and maintenance of the chargers, while the library will maintain the parking spots.

The chargers, open 24/7, cost $0.50 per kWh, payable using an app or card reader. Once charging is complete, the driver will have a 30-minute grace period before a $1 per minute fee applies.