The city of Luverne recently installed an electric car charger at the East Main Street and Blue Mound Avenue intersection.
The Level 2 charger is approved by Luverne’s electricity provider, Missouri River Energy Services, and city workers installed it in late August.
It’s capable of charging two cars at a time and takes up to two hours per charge, as opposed to the “fast chargers” that are more expensive and require more electricity.
The fast chargers are commonly installed at bars and restaurants where drivers can plug in their vehicles and have lunch while they charge.
The city is planning a fast charging station at a location closer to I-90, but for now the Level 2 charger will attract motorists with more time to stop.
Plus, they can plug in for free.
The charging station on East Main Street costs the city just over $1 per charge, but for now it’s being offered free of charge as an economic development tool.
“At the trailhead, you can check out a bike, walk up town or go across the street to the brewery,” Mayor Pat Baustian said at a recent council meeting.
“It’s placed it strategically where there is a high demand.”
Motorists with electric cars have apps on their cell phones showing the locations along their traveled route where they can charge their vehicles.
The city of Luverne purchased the Level 2 charging station for $11,000, which includes a five-year warranty, through MRES and received a $3,000 rebate from MRES to install it.