Portland, Oregon is proud of its reputation as a charged city – it’s home to about 4,000 EV drivers.

Four years ago, the city designated a downtown block as an EV zone called Electric Avenue, complete with a number of public charging stations. It soon became a popular place for EVSE makers to test new equipment.

Last year, Electric Avenue was forced to move by new construction in the downtown area. Now it’s been reopened at a new location, next to the headquarters of local electric utility Portland General Electric (PGE).

Electric Avenue now features four Efacec Universal Quick Chargers, equipped with both SAE Combo and CHAdeMO connectors; and two ClipperCreek Level 2 chargers.

Charging is free “for a limited time,” but drivers must pay the citywide parking fee of $1.60 per hour. The electricity comes from certified renewable sources.

“We’re pleased that our EV-driving customers and visitors have a place to charge up as they visit downtown Portland.” said PGE CEO Jim Piro. “Oregonians are committed to sustainable practices, and they are excited by the possibilities offered by electric transportation.”

Sources: Ecomento, Portland General Electric, Portland Business Journal