Southeastern Community College and Duke Energy worked together to bring two Level 2 EV charging units to the SCC campus on March 9, and they became operational on March 31. The EV charging station is part of Duke Energy’s Park and Plug program which helps attract guests to campus, helps increase time spent on campus and contributes to SCC’s environmental sustainability goals.  

“The charging station is a significant boost for the college, community and for individuals traveling down the road,” said Dr. Chris English, SCC President. “It’s important that we partner with Duke Energy to have these EV charging stations on campus because it becomes a training tool for us and product of use for the consumer out on the road with an EV car.” 

English explained that learning about alternative fuel sources is part of the automotive program at SCC, and students will be able to see and experience the commercial use of a charging station. With a projected 20% increase in electric vehicle use by 2030, English said the charging station on campus was significant for the transportation industry, for our technicians and students to learn how to service the cars and for accessibility. SCC’s charging station is listed on a national registry app with Duke Energy that notifies EV car owners of the nearest charging station.  

“So if you’re traveling down U.S. 74 and you need a charge, those drivers are going to know where they can charge their car,” English said. “People can come and use the charging station, walk around and enjoy our beautiful campus.” 

English explained that SCC entered a five-year contract with Duke Energy, which fully-funded the parts and installation. After those five years, SCC can purchase the EV charging station equipment from Duke Energy at a greatly reduced price. Each charging unit has two ports giving SCC the capability to charge four EV cars at once.  

The charging station is powered by Shell Energy. Before use, EV car owners are required to download the free Shell Recharge app on their mobile device and scan the QR code displayed on the charging unit. Car owners can pay for their electricity on the app with a debit or credit card. Depending on vehicle type, Duke Energy lists a one-hour charge time giving 15 to 30 miles on the road. 

Logan Kureczka, lead communications manager for Duke Energy, said the company is “helping N.C. towns and cities locate around 280 public charging stations in the state, including in multifamily dwellings and traditionally underserved communities.” She explained that SCC was selected because of its location and amenities.  

“Duke Energy is committed to helping the communities in the states we serve with their efforts to develop charging networks so that EV drivers feel comfortable on the road, with confidence knowing where they will be able to charge their vehicles,” Kureczka said.