Hawaiian Electric has opened a new fast charger at a shopping center in the Iwilei district of Honolulu. The opening ceremony included a traditional Hawaiian blessing, complete with a maile lei.

The new dual-standard (CHAdeMO and CCS) fast charger is the company’s 12th. Hawaiian Electric will operate the equipment at no cost to the host for installation, maintenance or electricity. The Hawaiian Electric Companies have approval from the Hawai’i Public Utilities Commission to install up to 25 fast chargers.

EVs are a great fit for islands, and the state of Hawai’i provides several incentives for electrification. EVs on O’ahu get free parking at municipal lots and metered parking and may use high-occupancy vehicle lanes. State law requires public parking lots with 100 parking spaces or more to have at least one exclusive parking space equipped with an EV charging station.

“We’re glad to add another charger location for those who live near downtown or want to drive home to other parts of the island,” said Brennon Morioka, Hawaiian Electric Manager for Electrification of Transportation. “Electric vehicles are a great way to save money on your total home energy bill while helping Hawai’i reach a clean energy future, reduce fossil fuel use and protect the environment.”

Source: Hawaiian Electric