Resourcing and Supply of Electric Vehicle Charging Solutions in Rural America

An effective transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is critical to the reduction of fossil fuel use and climate change mitigation efforts. This transition requires an accessible charging infrastructure that is similar to today’s petroleum stations. Across rural America, petroleum stations play a vital role in the viability of transportation and purchase of goods. The sale of petroleum products is critical to the business models of these stores through direct petroleum sales and in-store purchases. Rural petroleum stations are particularly susceptible to the transition due to lower population density and higher home ownership, driving an increase in home charging compared to their urban and suburban counterparts. In this paper we promote a systems approach to the expansion of rural charging infrastructure, considering the stakeholders, requirements, needs, and other impact relationships necessary to successfully mitigate potential negative outcomes for rural petroleum station business models.