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Insights > Entergy Arkansas and Adopt a Charger boost eco-friendly EV charging
Entergy Arkansas and Adopt a Charger boost eco-friendly EV charging
10/02/2024
Little Rock, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas and Adopt a Charger are promoting Electric Vehicle (EV) Tourism and enabling zero emission travel at its first two Arkansas State Park locations. Six charging stations were installed at Mount Nebo State Park near Dardanelle, and four charging stations were installed at the DeGray Lake Resort State Park at the Lodge and Conference Center near Hot Springs in August 2024. Adopt a Charger, a nonprofit organization, funded the projects with support from a $80,000 grant from Entergy’s Environmental Initiatives Fund (EIF).
“Entergy Arkansas is proud to play an important role in supporting the growth of more EV chargers across the state,” said Ventrell Thompson, vice president of customer service at Entergy Arkansas. “These chargers are part of our broader strategy to enable sufficient charging infrastructure and increase consumer confidence while navigating the Natural State roadways, including offering installation for customer-owned EV charging infrastructure, Entergy Arkansas-owned fast charging stations and a host of other customer incentives through our eTech rebate program.”
At Mount Nebo and DeGray Lake Resort State Parks, these EV charging stations are available for public use to enable ecotourism in the Natural State, where outdoor recreation has gained in popularity.
"We understand the growing demand for EV charging options," said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. "These new stations ensure visitors to Arkansas State Parks have additional resources to enjoy Mount Nebo State Park and DeGray Lake Resort State Park. The Natural State Initiative set a course to improve experiences at Arkansas State Parks. This new technology will help accomplish our mission to provide quality recreational and educational opportunities, enhance the economy and honor tradition while seeking innovation."
According to experts at Adopt a Charger, installing the chargers in commuter popular destination locations will enable more interaction between curious consumers and actual owners.
“When people spot an EV driving down the road, they don’t automatically notice that the vehicle runs on electricity. The ‘aha’ moment happens when they see the car plugged in at places they like to go and get to ask questions of the driver about the owner's experience.” said Kitty Adams, executive director of Adopt a Charger. “I love partnering with State Parks because they are popular destinations, and often times fill charging gaps between metropolitan areas. The demographic is quick to embrace new technology, and typically strives to have a positive impact on the environment. I’m grateful to Entergy Arkansas and the Arkansas State Parks for supporting the expansion of EV infrastructure across the state.”
Tesla provided the Universal Charging Stations, of which the six units at Mt. Nebo were donated. The EV charging stations feature both the North American Charging Standard and the J-1772 connector and are capable of charging all EVs on the road today and in the future. The Level 2 – 240-volt stations add up to 25 miles of range per hour, making it the perfect solution for visitors who routinely spend at least two-three hours visiting the parks. Arkansas based Lumatech installed the EV charging stations and will maintain the equipment for 5 years at each location.
Entergy’s Environmental Initiatives Fund has awarded approximately $43 million in Entergy shareholder contributions to environmentally beneficial projects and programs since 2001. EIF has supported waterway and wildlife conservation here in Arkansas, as well as wetlands restoration in Louisiana, reforestation in Mississippi and Texas and a host of volunteer opportunities and other projects you can learn about here.
About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 730,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation, a Fortune 500 electric company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. For the latest news from Entergy Arkansas, visit the Newsroom and connect with @EntergyArk on social media.
About Arkansas State Parks
Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 54,400 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state’s economy through tourism, and provide leadership in resource conservation. Arkansas State Parks serves more than 9 million visitors annually. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
About Adopt a Charger
Adopt a Charger is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in March 2011 to accelerate the widespread adoption of plug in electric vehicles by broadening the charging infrastructure. Adopt a Charger’s unique approach matches a sponsor with a host site located at a popular public destination: National Parks, State Parks, colleges, museums, communities and medical centers. Contact kitty.adams@adoptacharger.org.
