JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (Nov. 19, 2020) – Jefferson City is about to become a more popular stop for electric vehicle (EV) drivers. Ameren Missouri and Courtyard by Marriott (Marriott) have partnered to install a DC fast-charging station at the Marriott parking garage on Bolivar Street, enabling travelers to recharge their vehicle in as little as 30 to 45 minutes.
“This year, more than ever, we’re relying on the safety of our own cars to travel longer distances. But for EV drivers in Central Missouri, it can be challenging to take a road trip if there aren’t charging stations along the way,” said Bryan Shannon, Ameren Missouri business development manager. “As part of our Charge Ahead program, this station in Jefferson City expands EV charging stations across the region so drivers can confidently go farther.”
Electric vehicles produce no emissions and are better for the environment than gas-powered vehicles. The charging station at the Marriott will be able to charge up to four cars simultaneously. Drivers will pay Marriott per kilowatt-hour of electricity used.
“We’re excited to offer on-site EV charging as another amenity for our guests who stay with us, as well as those who are passing through town,” said Scott Perry, Marriott director of operations. “Jefferson City offers many historic sites, local restaurants and businesses that families can explore, and we hope the added benefit of convenient EV charging will attract even more travelers to our region.”
Through the Charge Ahead program, Ameren Missouri is offering incentives for local businesses to own and operate additional EV charging stations at their locations, ultimately installing 1,000 EV charging stations at 350 locations across the state.
Recently, Ameren Missouri joined other Midwest utilities to commit to building a vast network of fast-charging stations throughout the Midwest, making it possible for drivers to travel farther, such as St. Louis to Denver or Detroit to Oklahoma City, in electric vehicles.
"This electric vehicle charging station is great for Jefferson City and Missouri. We have so many visitors to our state capitol every year and this station provides an additional incentive to travel cleaner," said Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe. "Located at the intersection of highways 50, 63 and 54, all three highways intersect right here at the hotel and these charging stations will be able to support travelers going in all directions."
The Jefferson City fast-charging station is one of 11 to be completed in Ameren Missouri’s service area this year. Stations also are located in St. Louis, Festus, Warrenton, Moberly, Bowling Green, Kirksville, Canton, Cape Girardeau, Hayti and Lake of the Ozarks. Ameren Missouri plans to install an additional three stations in 2021.
As part of its commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions, Ameren Missouri also plans to electrify its own vehicle fleet, with a goal that 100% of new light-duty vehicle purchases by 2030 will be electric. In addition, 35% of Ameren Missouri’s overall vehicle fleet, including light-duty, medium-duty, heavy-duty, forklifts and ATV/UTV, will be electrified by 2030. Learn more about the benefits of electric vehicles and the Charge Ahead program at AmerenMissouri.com/EV.
About Ameren Missouri
Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company's electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri's mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 132,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company's service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.
Contact
Missouri Communications
314.554.2182
MissouriCommunications@Ameren.com