By GABRIELLA DRAGONE
PATERSON, NJ – The City of Paterson will utilize $609,000 awarded through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Transportation Electrification Grant to offset the cost of the purchase of two electric ambulances, under a measure being considered by the Paterson City Council.
The cost of the two Diesel vehicles, the resolution read, would be about $393,000, whereas the cost of the two electric vehicles will be about $1 million. The grant will make up the difference while also awarding up to $141,000 for installation of two chargers. The City of Paterson is also going to be granted $158,000 for two 100 AMP Dual Port DC Fast Chargers, including a five-year license, extended warranty, cellular connection, commissioning and shipping, along with the cost of a Data Logger for two vehicles for three years priced at $9,644.
The grant also secures funding of up to $125,000 towards incremental cost difference between one diesel utility truck and one new electric utility truck. The cost of the diesel truck would be about $65,628 and the electric truck would cost about $190,870. Similar to the ambulances, the City of Paterson is going to be granted up to $125,000 to support the difference in cost between the diesel and electric truck. The grant would also award up to $79,000 for installation of one charger behind the meter, without utility cost sharing.
The City of Paterson is also going to be granted up to $8,650 for one 40 AMP Dual Port Level two Charger, including a five-year license, extended warranty, cellular connection, commissioning and shipping along with the cost of a Data Logger for one vehicle for three years priced at $5,761. “This is an exciting time for the Paterson Fire Department as we take a lead in the use of electric vehicles to keep our city safe,” Chief Brian McDermott said. “This started as an initiative to make our city cleaner, a matter of environmental justice for those we protect.”
“Now, as gas prices continue to increase, it’s also an investment that will ultimately save taxpayers money.”