Metrolink station receives first electric vehicle charging location

After gathering feedback and data in 2017 on the need for electric vehicle charging stations locally, the city has since added additional stations throughout the Santa Clarita Valley. The latest is now available for use at the Santa Clarita Metrolink Station, the city announced Friday.

The new charging station can charge up to two vehicles at a time, fully charging each electric car in less than 30 minutes. Users could access the 24-hour, pay-per-use station via the EVConnect app to set up payment options, as well as monitor their current charge sessions in real time.

City staff found a growing need in the area for EV charging stations as the rise in electric vehicle ownership has grown over time. Santa Clarita has been able to secure funding locations for additional charging stations, with the latest installation increasing the count to eight. Other locations where electric car owners can charge their vehicles include the Hyatt Regency in Valencia, Castaic Lake RV Park, the Canyon Country Plaza and the Bridgeport Marketplace.

“By securing grants and partnering with regional environmental organizations, the city is able to install electric vehicle charging stations that both meet a growing demand in the community and help reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere,” said Kevin Strauss, communications specialist with the city.

Fueling with electricity can help reduce emissions and save consumers money over time as fuel and maintenance costs are more affordable, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

A ribbon cutting is scheduled at the Metrolink station entrance plaza at 10 a.m. on Jan. 24. For a list of charging stations and green initiatives in Santa Clarita, visit GreenSantaClarita.com/ green-store and for more on EVConnect, visit evconnect.com/drivers/.