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Boston has embarked on a groundbreaking journey toward sustainability with the introduction of the nation’s first behind-the-meter public curbside electric vehicle (EV) charger in the Roslindale neighborhood. This initiative by itselectric, a Brooklyn-based EV charging company, aligns with Boston’s Climate Action Plan to slash greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The innovative charger features a behind-the-meter connection—bypassing costly utility upgrades—and detachable cables, offering a practical, scalable solution for urban settings where 70 million U.S. drivers lack private charging options.
Key Highlights:
- Equity in EV Access: Provides charging solutions for street-parking drivers, addressing a critical barrier to EV adoption.
- Property Owner Perks: Enables revenue from charging fees and boosts property values at no installation cost.
- Swift Deployment: Installs in just two days, paving the way for rapid citywide expansion.
This charger launch signals a transformative shift in urban EV infrastructure, with plans for hundreds more across Boston in the coming year. As transportation and buildings account for nearly 99 percent of the city’s carbon emissions, this step is vital for meeting climate goals. The behind-the-meter design eliminates the need for utility grid enhancements, reducing both costs and installation timelines while easing electrical system strain.
Boston City Councilor Enrique J. Pepén emphasized the initiative’s impact: “I am proud to see Boston take this important step toward a sustainable and equitable future. Expanding access to electric vehicle charging, especially for those without private driveways, is key to reducing our carbon footprint and advancing our climate goals.”
itselectric’s Director of Public Affairs, Shannon Dulaney, highlighted the equity focus: “For too long, EV ownership has been limited to people who have a private driveway or garage. This is a crucial equity issue for the 70 million drivers across the United States who park on the street.”
Property owners can join this effort by hosting chargers at no cost, gaining revenue and enhancing property appeal. Roslindale’s Juan Cantu, an early adopter, noted, “There always has to be a first – and I am excited to show property owners in every neighborhood across Boston that they can simply raise their hand, and have a free EV charger installed right in front of their house.”
With installations taking just two days, itselectric aims to expand swiftly, ensuring every Boston household is within a five-minute walk of a charger. This public-private partnership sets a model for cities nationwide, blending innovation and accessibility to drive sustainable transportation forward.
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