Welcome to our weekly newsletter focusing on environmental trends and solutions driving us towards a more sustainable world. I’m back, Emily, and previously, I spoke with condo residents who successfully incorporated EV chargers into their buildings. However, challenges arise when more residents seek to use these chargers. Here’s a story from one EV owner.
This week’s highlights include condo buildings facing challenges with EV charging, a feature on marine creatures, and the transformation of the Chicago River.
Peter Luongo, a Burnaby, B.C., resident, purchased a Tesla Model 3 in 2018 due to rising gas prices and the availability of EV charging stations in his condo building. Initially, with only four EVs in a 350-unit building, charging was convenient. However, as EV popularity surged and the government incentivized zero-emission vehicles, demand for charging stations increased.
The existing two charging stations soon faced overcrowding, with some users leaving vehicles plugged in for days or resorting to unsafe methods like long extension cords. Luongo proposed installing more charging stations, but the idea was initially rejected by the condo board. Ultimately, a compromise was reached, adding five additional charging stations in visitor parking.
Despite some initial challenges, including finding suitable maintenance services, the additional stations have proven successful. However, the high demand for charging stations continues to be a concern, with all seven stations often fully occupied. Experts recommend planning for scalable solutions to address increasing demand for EV charging.
In parallel, startups are exploring innovative solutions to address EV charging challenges in multi-residential buildings. For instance, Kiwi Charge is developing a charging robot, while SWTCH manages building electricity to maximize charging infrastructure without extensive upgrades.
As Luongo and his community adapt to the evolving EV landscape, they have realized the importance of proactive planning and sustainable solutions. Their experience underscores the complexities and costs associated with integrating EV charging infrastructure in multi-residential buildings.
For more insights and environmental news, check out our podcast and radio show. Additionally, stay tuned for future articles on sustainable living practices and innovative solutions for a greener future.
Thank you for reading, and feel free to share your feedback or story tips with us at whatonearth@cbc.ca.
Stay informed and stay green!
– Emily
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/what-on-earth-ev-charging-condos-1.7643281)