Paired Power has announced the successful installation of its innovative PairTree™ solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging station at Playfields Park, located at 2500 Research Park Drive in Davis, California. This marks the second such installation in the city, furthering Davis’s commitment to sustainable and accessible EV charging solutions. By leveraging Paired Power’s unique solar microgrid technology, the City of Davis is providing free and eco-friendly charging options to the community, reinforcing its role as a leader in clean energy initiatives.
A Step Forward in Sustainable EV Charging
The global transition toward electric vehicles is accelerating, but one of the persistent challenges remains the availability of charging infrastructure, particularly in areas with limited access to grid power. The goal of making EVs widely accessible requires scalable and innovative solutions that can be deployed quickly and efficiently. Paired Power’s collaboration with the City of Davis exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to addressing this challenge.
“The goal of making electric vehicles accessible to everyone requires scalable solutions that can be deployed quickly in locations where there is little to no grid power. Paired Power is proud to work with the City of Davis to expand access to solar-powered EV charging, and this project demonstrates the city leadership’s forward-thinking approach to clean energy,” said Tom McCalmont, CEO of Paired Power.
The PairTree™ charging system offers several advantages over conventional EV chargers. Unlike grid-dependent stations, PairTree™ operates independently, drawing its power directly from the sun. This not only ensures a consistent and reliable power source but also enhances energy savings and sustainability. Additionally, the system is designed for rapid deployment and can be installed in just one day, making it a highly flexible solution for municipalities and communities looking to expand their EV infrastructure quickly.
Features and Benefits of the PairTree™ Charging System
The PairTree™ charger at Playfields Park is equipped with two EV charging ports, offering a Level 2 charging rate of up to 7.7kW for a single vehicle and 4kW per vehicle when both ports are in use simultaneously. The technology behind PairTree™ includes an advanced software system that ensures a 99.7% charging uptime, providing drivers with a reliable and efficient charging experience.
Another key benefit of the PairTree™ system is its resilience during power outages. Since it operates independently from the electrical grid, it remains functional even when grid power is unavailable. This feature is particularly valuable in the face of natural disasters or unexpected grid failures, ensuring that EV owners always have access to a charging solution when they need it most.
In addition to its technological advantages, the PairTree™ charger is user-friendly and accessible. Unlike many commercial EV charging stations that require memberships, apps, or payment methods, the Playfields Park PairTree™ charger is completely free to use. Drivers can simply plug in their vehicles and begin charging without any additional steps. However, to ensure fair access to this public resource, the City of Davis has implemented a two-hour parking limit for EV spaces at the park.
Davis’s Commitment to Clean Energy and Public Access
The installation of the PairTree™ charging station at Playfields Park aligns with Davis’s broader commitment to sustainability and renewable energy. The city has long been a pioneer in environmental initiatives, and the expansion of public EV charging infrastructure is a crucial part of its strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean transportation.
Davis Mayor Bapu Vaitla emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “The installation at Playfields Park is an exciting development for Davis. This park is a central recreational hub for families and athletes, and we’re very happy to partner with Paired Power to offer free, renewable electric car charging as part of the City’s clean energy initiatives. As we continue to expand our charging infrastructure, we will continue to ensure that sustainable transportation is accessible to everyone.”
The installation is part of the broader Electrify Yolo initiative, which aims to expand EV charging access throughout Yolo County. This initiative is being spearheaded by the City of Davis in collaboration with Yolo County, the Valley Clean Energy Alliance, and the cities of Winters and Woodland. Funding for the project comes from the 2018 SACOG Green Region grant, which supports the development of clean energy infrastructure across the region.
The Importance of Expanding Public EV Charging Infrastructure
As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, the need for public EV charging stations becomes increasingly urgent. Many residents, particularly those living in multi-unit dwellings or rental properties, do not have access to private charging solutions. Public charging stations help bridge this gap, making EV ownership more viable for a broader segment of the population.
Moreover, the presence of public chargers in parks and other community spaces encourages more people to consider transitioning to electric vehicles. Knowing that they have access to reliable and cost-free charging reduces range anxiety and makes EVs a more practical choice for daily commuting and recreational travel.
Future Plans for EV Charging in Davis
The successful deployment of the PairTree™ charger at Playfields Park is just one step in Davis’s larger vision for sustainable transportation. City officials and community partners are exploring additional locations for solar-powered EV chargers, with the goal of making clean transportation even more accessible to residents and visitors.
In addition to expanding charging infrastructure, the City of Davis is also looking at other initiatives to promote electric vehicle adoption. Incentive programs, partnerships with local businesses, and educational campaigns are all being considered as part of a comprehensive strategy to encourage sustainable mobility.
