October 3, 2024
Starkville is now a key destination on Mississippi’s electric highway, thanks to the growth of local electric vehicle chargers.
On Oct. 3, a ribbon-cutting ceremony officially opened a new public EV fast-charging station at 207 East Lampkin Street in downtown Starkville. Participants included representatives from the City of Starkville, Starkville Utilities, The Partnership, Tennessee Valley Authority and Seven States Power Corporation.
“By moving quickly to participate in the Fast Charge Network, we’re helping bring the economic and environmental benefits of electric transportation to Starkville,” said Edward Kemp, Starkville Utilities general manager. “We’ve received several requests from residents and visitors for another EV fast-charging option, so this investment meets a growing need in our community and also enhances our quality of life.”
The ChargePoint installation was funded primarily by a grant from TVA’s Fast Charge Network Program, which will add around 80 public fast charging sites to existing infrastructure so EV drivers on major corridors are never more than 25 miles from the nearest public fast chargers.
TVA’s Fast Charge Network supports the broader National Electric Highway Coalition, enabling long-distance electric vehicle travel by placing public fast chargers every 50 miles along the nation’s interstates and major highways.
“At TVA, we’ve moved far beyond connecting communities with power lines,” said Monika Beckner, vice president of TVA EnergyRight. “Today, EVs use our clean, low-cost, reliable electricity to connect communities and commerce across our region. Taking a leadership role in EV charging infrastructure allows TVA and Starkville Utilites to save drivers money and attract good jobs and tourism.”
In addition to the new ChargePoint station near the intersection of Lampkin and Jackson streets, Starkville Utilities has managed the installation of charging stations behind the Hotel Chester and outside of the Starkville Sportsplex. The city worked with Seven States Power Corporation to determine ideal charging locations based on traffic patterns and local amenities.
“Seven States is trusted by local power companies across the Tennessee Valley to deliver EV charging technology for their consumers,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, president and CEO of Seven States Power Corporation. “Impactful partnerships like this benefit the local community, regional economy and global environment for years to come.”
Starkville Utilities is a public utility serving 14,000 residences, businesses and industries in Starkville, Mississippi as well as Mississippi State University. Its mission is to supply safe, reliable, and cost-effective electric and water service of superior quality and value that improves the lives of its customers.