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Despite the current political situation at the federal level, there is still good news about electric vehicle charging and clean energy. In Pendleton, Oregon, a new fast EV charging hub has been installed that also utilizes solar power and energy storage.
XCharge North America, a provider of high-power EV charging and battery-integrated solutions, deployed the four, dual-dispenser GridLink chargers. Pendleton is about 209 miles east of Portland, and the charging hub is located at the Wildhorse Resort & Casino’s Arrowhead Travel Plaza.
Alex Urist, Vice President at XCharge North America, answered some questions about the new charging site.
How many EV chargers did you install, and how many charging ports are there?
The site features four fast-charging units, offering a total of eight charging ports—four NACS and four CCS1—to ensure compatibility across the widest range of electric vehicles on the road today.
What is the solar PV capacity, and are all the charging ports powered by solar power?
The installation includes a 40-kilowatt solar array, delivering 10 kilowatts of solar capacity to each charger alongside grid power. The system is designed for flexibility—operators can customize how much electricity is drawn from the grid at different times of day to balance cost, carbon intensity, and demand.
What is the peak EV charging port speed?
Each port is capable of delivering up to 194 kilowatts of power, dynamically allocated across the available connectors to optimize charging efficiency based on vehicle demand.
What is the energy storage system capacity and battery chemistry?
The site integrates a 215-kilowatt-hour battery energy storage system (on each unit, 860 kwh total) using lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistry, chosen for its proven safety, durability, and thermal stability.
How do EV drivers pay for their charging sessions using the new chargers?
Drivers can initiate and pay for charging sessions through multiple convenient options—credit card, tap-to-pay, or QR code—making the experience seamless and accessible for all users.
Are there restrooms, food, and beverages at the charging site?
Amenities are available at the adjacent travel center, which offers restrooms, food, and beverages. A nearby casino also provides additional dining and entertainment options for travelers.
Is the site near a major highway or road?
Yes. The charging site is strategically located along Interstate 84, a key transportation corridor across western Oregon, providing convenient access for regional and long-distance EV drivers alike.
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