Northeastern Washington is gearing up to better support its growing community of electric vehicle (EV) owners, thanks to a significant investment from a state-led initiative. As the popularity of electric vehicles continues its upward trajectory, the Washington State Department of Commerce has earmarked funds to establish new charging stations across several rural counties in the northeast and throughout the state. This strategic rollout is powered by the Climate Commitment Act, channeling resources into various counties to enhance EV infrastructure.
“Our aim is to ensure charging accessibility for everyone,” stated Steven Hershkowitz, the Clean Transportation Managing Director at the Washington State Department of Commerce. He emphasized the importance of equitable access, “regardless of whether individuals have the capacity to install a charger at their residence.” This initiative directly addresses the needs of EV owners in more remote areas, ensuring they are not left behind in the transition to electric mobility.
The impact of this commitment is already evident in the region’s EV adoption rates. Pend Oreille County, for example, witnessed a remarkable 75% surge in registered electric vehicles between 2022 and 2023. The numbers jumped from 32 to 56, marking one of the most substantial percentage increases in EV usage statewide. Stevens County also experienced significant growth, with registered EVs climbing from 145 to 211, a 45.5% increase. Ferry County maintained a steady number of registered EVs at 26, while Spokane County boasted 4,312 registered electric vehicles in 2023, highlighting the broader regional trend.
“Washington State has demonstrated remarkable success in fostering electric vehicle adoption across the board,” Hershkowitz noted, underscoring the state’s leading position. “We proudly held the No. 1 ranking nationally for growth in EV registrations in 2023.” This achievement reflects the effectiveness of state programs and growing consumer interest in electric vehicles.
The current phase of the program focuses on deploying “Level 2 charger projects.” These chargers are designed to replenish an EV battery to 80% capacity within six to eight hours of charging, making them ideal for overnight or workplace charging. Hershkowitz anticipates these projects will be completed within 270 days, rapidly expanding the available charging network.
However, recognizing the need for quicker charging options, the state is also investing in “fast charger” projects. These are acknowledged to be more complex and will require a longer timeframe to implement. “Fast chargers are crucial for long-distance travel, allowing drivers to top up their batteries during shorter stops, say around 30 minutes,” Hershkowitz explained. Due to the increased electrical infrastructure and complexity, these fast charger projects are slated for completion within 580 days, just under two years.
These initiatives will introduce 15 new charging locations in northeastern Washington, benefiting communities in Cusick, Kettle Falls, and Metaline Falls, among others. A significant feature of most new locations will be the inclusion of both Level 2 and direct-current fast charging ports, providing versatile charging solutions to EV drivers.
Currently, northeastern Washington has a limited charging infrastructure with only eight existing charging stations. All of these are Level 2 ports, lacking the faster direct-current fast charging capabilities. The new project directly addresses this gap, bringing faster and more accessible charging to the region.
Bryan Zeski, a 2021 Tesla Model Y owner residing in Oroville, a town north of Omak, welcomes the expansion. While appreciating the addition of Level 2 chargers, he emphasizes the transformative potential of fast-charging ports. “That would be a significant boost to EV adoption in this area,” Zeski stated. “Currently, there are no L3 chargers between South Spokane and Canada,” highlighting a major gap in the charging infrastructure along this corridor.
Zeski, who transitioned to electric driving in 2021, has experienced firsthand the economic and reliability benefits of EVs. “Omak is our closest U.S. ‘city’ with shopping, and with high gas prices, the 45-minute drive each way was costly for routine trips. With our Tesla, we can travel to Omak, Penticton, and Kelowna in Canada without gasoline expenses,” he shared, illustrating the real-world savings for EV owners.
Brandon Hansen, a resident of Chewelah, initially harbored skepticism about electric vehicles, particularly concerning winter performance, and initially considered a hybrid. However, a test drive changed his perspective. “Amidst the Tesla buzz, we explored other options and visited the KIA dealership in Liberty Lake, where we had positive past experiences,” Hansen recounted. “We initially aimed for a hybrid, but the EV Niro test drive impressed us.”
Hansen and his wife, both now EV drivers, are also realizing savings on their daily commutes. For them, the primary challenge in their rural setting is the scarcity of charging stations. Chewelah’s golf course currently offers four Level 2 charging stations, with a half charge costing $7.50 and a full charge at $15.
The upcoming infrastructure improvements are poised to alleviate this concern. “It’s greatly needed for local EV owners and for visitors to the area,” Hansen affirmed. “Knowing charging stations are available here will boost confidence for travelers heading this way.”
Currently, the Tesla Model 3 leads in EV popularity in Ferry County, while the Tesla Model Y is prominent in Stevens and Pend Oreille Counties, indicating brand preferences within the region.
Hershkowitz also highlighted the state’s Electric Vehicle Instant Rebate Program, designed to facilitate EV adoption among low-income households. This initiative provides rebates ranging from $2,500 to $9,000 at the point of purchase or lease, making EVs more accessible financially.
Hayden Sweeney, a sales associate at Colville Toyota, has observed increased customer inquiries about electric vehicles since the rebate program launched. “We’ve seen a noticeable shift from occasional inquiries to several calls a week regarding our EV inventory,” Sweeney noted.
He further mentioned that Colville Toyota experiences higher sales of hybrid vehicles, often favored by customers seeking the flexibility of both gasoline and electric power, especially for longer journeys and range confidence. “We even had a customer rent a Prius from us for a Montana trip, as charging infrastructure wasn’t sufficient for her Tesla in that area,” he recounted.
The rebate program is funded through June 2025 and is projected to provide 6,500 to 8,000 rebates, further driving EV adoption across the state.
Looking ahead, the Washington State Department of Commerce website indicates potential for future funding rounds for charging station projects. While a specific timeline is not yet available, the state’s commitment to expanding EV infrastructure is clear.
“Our current focus is to support individuals wanting to transition to EVs, making it easier and more affordable, as it leads to substantial fuel cost savings,” Hershkowitz concluded. “Fueling an EV in Washington is approximately four times cheaper than gasoline, presenting a compelling economic advantage.” The “Getting There Car Program” and related initiatives are paving the way for a more robust and accessible electric vehicle future in Washington State, particularly benefiting its rural communities.
