Oregon’s First Solar EV Fast-Charging Station

XCharge North America partners with Wildhorse Resort & Casino to launch Oregon's first solar-plus-storage DC fast-charging station, enhancing sustainable travel infrastructure on a key transportation corridor with advanced GridLink technology.

XCharge North America has announced a new partnership with Wildhorse Resort & Casino’s Arrowhead Travel Plaza to launch Oregon’s first solar-plus-storage DC fast-charging station. This deployment in Pendleton features four dual-dispenser GridLink chargers, expanding XCharge NA’s presence to 18 states and providing a fast, efficient charging experience for a growing base of electric vehicle customers.

Key Highlights

  • XCharge North America and Wildhorse Resort & Casino have partnered to deploy four, dual-dispenser GridLink chargers in Pendleton, Oregon.
  • The installation is the first solar-plus-storage DC fast-charging station in the state.
  • The project integrates four 215kWh GridLinks with 40kW of solar power, with each unit capable of outputting up to 194kW.
  • The initiative was facilitated by NetZero Energy, LLC, which provided project management and system design.

Strategic Partnership and Location

The Arrowhead Travel Plaza, part of the Wildhorse Resort & Casino enterprises on the tribal lands of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, is a critical hub. It serves over 1.7 million vehicles on Interstate 84, a key transportation corridor. This installation provides a sustainable and safe charging solution for travelers.

“We partnered with XCharge NA because they provide a grid-friendly charging solution with battery storage that seamlessly integrates with a custom solar canopy—a perfect fit for our climate,” stated Tom Fine, general manager of Arrowhead Travel Plaza. “Their technology provides clear operational and economic advantages that assist Arrowhead Travel Plaza in providing a needed service for the broadening customer base.”

The high-speed charging technology is particularly vital for drivers heading eastbound on the steep and often weather-prone Cabbage Hill route, where a full charge is essential for safety.

“This project supports the Tribe’s dedication to sustainable practices and our mission to deliver a forward-thinking experience for all guests and travelers,” added Gary E. George, Chief Executive Officer at Wildhorse Resort & Casino.

Advancing Sustainable Infrastructure

The project represents a significant step forward in integrating renewable energy with EV charging infrastructure. The system is designed to offset grid demand and enhance the resilience of the local energy architecture.

“Helping create Oregon’s first solar-supplemented DC fast-charging site marks a major milestone in XCharge’s journey of innovation and sustainability,” said Aatish Patel, co-founder and president of XCharge NA. “It’s a powerful demonstration of how integrating our GridLink technology with solar power can offset grid demand, enhance a charging site’s resilience and flexibility, and even bolster the region’s energy architecture.”

  • GridLink features a base capacity of 215 kWh, expandable to 430 kWh, with a wide range of input power to achieve maximum output.
  • It provides advanced bidirectional charging technology, seamless grid integration, and direct integration with photovoltaics.
  • The bidirectional capability allows power to flow back into the grid or serve as an off-grid energy source, enhancing overall grid stability.
  • An advanced Thermal Runaway Management System monitors each battery pack with four dedicated sensors to isolate risks at the earliest stage.
  • The system includes a built-in “fire suppression fluid tank” for pack-level fire suppression, minimizing damage and enabling cost-effective battery pack replacement.

For more information, visit: xcharge.us/product/gridlink

About XCharge NA

XCharge NA specializes in high-power EV charging and battery-integrated solutions tailored to the North American electrical grid. The company provides scalable open-access EV charging solutions designed to improve grid resilience and strengthen the country’s energy infrastructure.

About XCharge

XCharge (NASDAQ: XCH) is a global leader in integrated EV charging solutions, offering DC fast chargers and advanced battery-integrated DC fast chargers. Through its proprietary technology, XCharge enhances EV charging efficiency while unlocking the value of energy storage and management.

About Wildhorse Resort & Casino

Located in Pendleton, Oregon, Wildhorse Resort & Casino is a premier family destination owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. The resort features golf courses, a hotel, diverse dining options, a casino, and other family-friendly entertainment. For more information, visit: wildhorseresort.com

About NetZero Energy, LLC

NetZero Energy, LLC is a Pacific Northwest–based company focused on advancing the EV charging market. It delivers resilient transportation infrastructure by providing turnkey solutions that bring projects from concept to completion.

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The EV Report

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