BOONE, Iowa—Midland Power Cooperative will host its first electric vehicle (EV) car show at its Boone office (2005 S. Story St.) on Saturday, May 11, from 8 to 10 a.m.
Attendees can kick the tires on some of the latest EV and plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) models and learn about the pros and cons of owning an EV. They can also enjoy a free omelet breakfast and take test rides in several of the most popular electric vehicles.
Midland Power members who display their EV or PHEV will receive a limited edition DRIVE Electric Vehicle Car Club baseball hat. Vehicle registration is free and can be found at MidlandPower.coop/EVCarShow.
The event will also mark the official launch of the co-op’s newly formed DRIVE Electric Vehicle Car Club.
“As a member-owned electric cooperative, we want to serve as a trusted source of information for our members about all things energy-related,” said Roger Hammen, Midland Power’s manager of energy services. “We know from our research that a growing number of our members are buying EVs or are considering buying an EV soon. Establishing an EV car club will enable us to better connect with those members and help them establish smart vehicle charging habits.” Registration in the car club is free at MidlandPower.coop/DRIVE, and members don’t have to currently own an EV to register.
With the U.S. Department of Energy estimating that more than 80 percent of EV charging is done at home, Midland Power is working to prepare for the possible widespread adoption of EVs on their largely residential distribution system. In 2021, the co-op formed an employee EV task force to design programs and policies to help ensure continued system reliability and affordability for all members.
“Over the past few years, EV batteries have really improved and grown in capacity,” said Caleb McKim, Midland Power energy service specialist. “The downside of those bigger batteries is that they draw a lot more power when they charge. That puts a heavier load on existing infrastructure. Depending on the time of day a member chooses to charge, it can also increase the demand and energy costs we pay our wholesale power providers.”
To help mitigate those costs, the co-op recommends members utilize their vehicle’s or smart charger’s scheduling feature and only charge during the day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or at night from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. During those times, wholesale power is less expensive, and demand on the electric grid is lower.
For more information on electric vehicles, the co-op’s DRIVE EV car club, and tips on what to consider when shopping for an EV, visit MidlandPower.coop/EV.
(contributed press release, Midland Power Cooperative)
