Duke Energy
The new coalition will focus on creating a network of DC fast chargers on major highways. Credit: © Duke Energy Corporation.

US-based electric power company Duke Energy has partnered with five other companies to create more electric vehicle (EV) charging points in the country.

The company’s partners in the new Electric Highway Coalition are American Electric Power, Dominion Energy, Entergy Corporation, Southern Co and the Tennessee Valley Authority.

The coalition members will focus on providing DC fast charging options on major highways in their service territories to facilitate interstate travel.

The partnership aims to offer EV drivers convenient charging across different company boundaries and allow travel without interruptions.

The Edison Electric Institute estimates 18 million EVs will be on US roads by 2030.  While many drivers recognise the benefits of driving an EV such as the ease of low-cost home charging, some are concerned with the availability of charging stations during long road trips.

Duke Energy Electrification Strategy director Lang Reynolds said: “The path to cleaner transportation is a robust charging infrastructure along the nation’s major highways.

“Range anxiety is a barrier to more EV adoption. This coalition can erase those obstacles and help deliver the benefits of EV ownership to consumers.”

Dominion Energy president and CEO Robert M Blue said: “Dominion Energy is committed to equitable and reliable charging access so our customers may experience the benefits of electric transportation, including reduced carbon emissions.

“We’re excited to collaborate with our utility partners on this important initiative to connect customers to charging resources and encourage electric vehicle travel.”

Duke Energy said that the fast charging station locations will be determined through the course of both existing and planned fast charging programmes.

In October, Duke Energy secured approval from the Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) for two electric transportation (ET) pilot programmes to support the increasing EV market in South Carolina.