— from San Juan County Communications —
San Juan County Council approved funding for the purchase of two new electric vehicles and charging stations at its May 10th regular meeting. The purchase is part of a concerted County effort to replace older gas or diesel powered vehicles in its fleet with new electric technology.
“We purchased two electric utility vehicles for our Facilities crew a couple of years ago; they have worked out well and are very cost effective,” said Mike Thomas, County Manager.
The new vehicles are the Nissan Leaf and should go into service in the next couple of months.
I very much hope that this is the beginning of a local trend. While the county, being tax exempt, can’t use the $7,500 federal tax credit) this nevertheless saves the county and its taxpayers money over many years.
Those taxpayers who can follow the county’s example would benefit even more than the county and find that their discretionary income, whatever it was before, will increase thereby benefiting themselves and the county economy.
When I started consulting for OPALCO on energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, I decided to buy a 2013 Nissan Leaf, to see what it was like to live the electric life. I replaced a 20 MPG gas car that cost about $1,700 a year for gasoline. Now, with the Leaf, I spend about $190 a year in electricity.
Craig’s List has a lot of used Leaf’s that are coming off lease. If you go that route, stick with 2013 or newer model years. It is the second generation model, with some improvements in range and winter performance. They are very comfortable and fun to drive – low maintenance and carefree.
OPALCO and San Juan Island Conservation District are working with Nissan and other EV manufacturers to get group buying discounts for co-op members, for new EV purchases. Stay tuned for more on that.
With 100+ mile range, it is the perfect island car. If you have two cars, think about making one an EV. It will be the car you use the most, pay the least for “fuel,” and love to drive.
Here’s a video of one co-op member talking about her EV experience, and energy efficiency: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJwE8dsx0_E