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City of Salem Electric Vehicle Charging Fee - FAQ

What are some questions that might come up regarding this new policy?
Posted on: October 13, 2023 - 1:34pm
Electric Vehicle Charging Fee FAQ

Beginning on 10/20/2023, the City of the Salem will be charging a $0.35/kWh fee for charging at all publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Though it will not cover the full cost of City ownership and maintenance of these stations, this fee will help offset some of these costs while ensuring that the City of Salem can continue to provide and expand this service in the future.

  • Why institute the $/kWh fee?

When Salem initially installed EV charging stations it was provided as a free service in locations that charge for parking. In locations where   parking is free, a fee has existed. The cost of providing this service to residents, businesses, and visitors includes the electricity these stations use, service contracts, networking plans, and staff time. Instituting a $0.35/kWh charging fee will not completely cover these costs but will help to offset them.

  • Do we have to pay for EV charging currently?

The stations at Bertram Field, Bentley Academy, Salerno Auto School, and Forest River Park have always assessed a $2/hour fee for charging an electric vehicle. Charging at Museum Place Garage, South Harbor Garage, and the Sewall Street Lot has been free.

  • Will stations that currently assess a $2/hour charging fee continue to do so?

No. Upon the implementation of the $0.35/kWh charging fee, EV stations at Bertram Field, Bentley Academy, Salerno Auto School, and Forest River Park will switch to the $0.35/kWh fee.

  • I pay less for electricity at home, why is the fee higher?

The cost of ownership for these charging stations is more than just the electricity they use. The City must also pay for maintenance and network plans. The $0.35/kWh fee will not cover all of these costs, but it will help to offset them.

  • Do other cities and towns assess an EV charging fee?

Yes. Arlington, Beverly, Boston, Cambridge, Medford, Melrose, and Swampscott are all examples of municipalities that currently implement a price per energy protocol for public EV charging.

  • Is the City making a profit from this fee?

No. The $0.35/kWh fee will only partially cover the cost of providing this service to residents, businesses, and visitors.

  • How do I pay to charge my vehicle at the stations?

Chargepoint is the manufacturer of all of the current charging stations in Salem. In order to charge at these stations, drivers need to open a Chargepoint account and download the application on their cell phones. More information can be found at chargepoint.com.

  • If I pay to park, do I still have to pay for EV charging?

Yes. This fee will be assessed at all city-owned publicly accessible charging stations and will be separate from any parking fees.