RUMFORD, Maine (September 18, 2023) — RTE Energy Solutions, a North American leader in turnkey energy efficiency and smart city solutions for small to mid-size municipalities, announced its partnership with the Town of Rumford, Maine to install 2 additional Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations downtown at the Town Hall Parking Lot next to the busy intersection of Portland and River Streets. These pole-mounted EV chargers are fully equipped with software capabilities allowing the plug to drop from the unit down to an ADA-compliant 3-foot height thanks to an easy-to-scan QR code.
The project grew from the town's previous relationship with RTE installing its first EV charging station site on Bridge Street at the local Information Center overlooking the scenic Rumford Falls as well as upgrading its streetlights to more environmentally friendly LEDs. This second installment of the pole-mounted EV chargers provides an added draw for visitors exploring the downtown area centered around Rumford Falls on the Androscoggin River. With proximity to three of Maine's most popular ski resorts, Rumford has long thrived on tourism, and these additional chargers are expected to increase traffic as the utilization rate of electric vehicles continues to climb.
“The number of electric vehicles is increasing in our town. By installing the EV charging stations along US Route 2, it will provide us with a unique opportunity to support visitors from Maine, Canada, New England and the entire country,” says George O'Keefe, Rumford's Economic Development Director.
O'Keefe explained that the town considered standing stations that would have required considerable electrical work in the downtown area. RTE ideated and designed a custom alternative solution that benefitted both the charging needs as well as the town aesthetic, O'Keefe explained. By mounting the chargers on poles, rather than being a free-standing solution, they are out of the way of snowplows and don't require expensive underground conduit and concrete work.
Additionally, the Town received incentive funding through Efficiency Maine's Rural Level 2 EV Charging Initiative. The program covers up to 80% of the total eligible costs for projects at local government-owned facilities in addition to a bonus incentive from The Nature Conservancy. RTE helped the Town select and apply for all applicable funding to ensure they receive the best bang for their buck. RTE has successfully obtained millions of dollars in incentives and grants for its clients.
This is the second EV installation project for RTE, which has worked with over 350 towns and cities over the past 10 years. As the industry evolves, the company expects to be offering this turnkey EV charging station service to more and more customers.
About RTE Energy Solutions
At RTE Energy Solutions, we understand the significance of staying ahead of the curve and building resilience in communities across North America. That's why our mission is to reduce inefficiencies, transition toward a sustainable future, and evolve together as we harness the potential of revolutionary sustainable technologies. Our comprehensive range of services encompasses various areas where energy efficiency can be maximized. We offer state-of-the-art turnkey energy solutions and unmatched customer service to suit the diverse needs of our clients.
Learn more about our full turnkey EV Charging Station services.
About Rumford, Maine
Settled in 1774 as New Pennacook, the town of Rumford is a beautiful area filled with trees, streams, and mountains. The Androscoggin River flows through the town and features a series of spectacular waterfalls. Together they have a total drop of 176 feet making it the highest drop east of Niagara Falls. The town has become the business center of the region with the ND Paper Company as its largest employer and features tons of attractions for tourists including the Black Mountain of the Maine ski area. Discover more about Rumford at https://rumfordme.org/.