Southern Illinois University Carbondale today (July 10) demonstrated its commitment to sustainability, with the SIU Board of Trustees’ approval to install three public Level 3 electric vehicle charging stations.
Through a partnership with Egyptian Electric Cooperative Association (EECA), stations that can charge multiple vehicles will be installed in the parking lot across from the Student Center in the fall and at the entrance to Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and on the north side of the Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center at the Southern Illinois Airport by summer 2026.
SIU’s Imagine 2030 strategic plan calls for the university to become known as a forward-thinking, environmentally responsible institution that embraces sustainability and reduces its carbon footprint, said Susan L. Simmers, vice chancellor for administration and finance.
“This project is part of our sustainability plan and fits well with the sustainability pillar of our strategic plan,” Simmers said. “We are grateful for this opportunity with EECA.”
Level 3 stations are the fastest, adding 100-250 miles of range in 30-45 minutes, much faster than Level 2 stations typically found in public spaces. The closest public Level 3 station is in Marion, near Interstate 57. The charging stations on the SIU campus will be accessible to the public 24/7, and each site will have a space accessible to people with disabilities.
“While drivers are charging their vehicles, they can get a bite to eat, if they are on the main campus or at the airport, or take a walk and enjoy the surroundings,” Simmers said.
Under the agreement, SIU will grant EECA a license to install and operate its charging equipment for at least five years. Users will pay EECA for charging and parking time. EECA received a grant through the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Driving a Cleaner Illinois program to cover up to 80% of project costs.
