Fairhope Opens Vehicle Charging Station

FAIRHOPE, Ala. — A new solar power research station in the Fairhope City Hall parking lot will also provide a location for electric-vehicle drivers to charge while shopping or visiting downtown, Gulf Coast Media recently announced. The station is a joint effort by the city and Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) to provide spaces to charge up to six electric vehicles under a canopy of solar panels capable of generating up to 24 kilowatts of electricity. Mayor Sherry Sullivan said the project will encourage business downtown, allowing people to “charge their electric [vehicles] and then, obviously, visit our restaurants and shops here in Fairhope.” AMEA CEO Fred Clark added that the new facility will help authorities and residents study the use of solar power by providing data on renewable energy for the future. The city also plans to add additional electric vehicle charging stations on Highway 98 with an additional $55,000 in AMEA matching funds for Fairhope.