Kempower has officially opened its new EV charger manufacturing facility in North Carolina. This plant aims to serve electric vehicle drivers and fleet owners in the United States and Canada.
The inauguration marks a key development in Kempower’s mission to support clean transportation and enhance global EV Charging infrastructure.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper addressed attendees, highlighting the collaboration between public policy, private innovation, and community support. “Kempower’s new facility demonstrates the achievements possible through combined efforts, benefiting not only Kempower but everyone working towards a sustainable future,” he stated.
Kempower’s CEO Tomi Ristimäki emphasized the company’s broader vision, stating, “Our facility in Durham signifies our commitment to promoting sustainable, clean energy worldwide, alongside our aim for rapid and profitable growth.”
Kempower’s strategic plan includes becoming one of the top five global players in the DC charging market by 2030. The company operates four factories, including this new one in Durham, and develops advanced charging technology. Key innovations include:
- North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector
- CTEP certification
- NEVI compliance
- 400A Single satellite
- Megawatt Charging System (MCS)
- Various upcoming solutions aimed at partnerships with retailers, automotive manufacturers, and public transport operators in North America and globally.
“Kempower’s achievements in North America reflect Finnish expertise in electric transportation and sustainable innovation.” Jarmo Sareva, Consul General of Finland in New York.
“Kempower’s work supports the U.S. in building a nationwide EV charging network, ensuring infrastructure readiness for the increasing number of EVs.” Jeff Marootian from the U.S. Department of Energy.
“Kempower’s investment will significantly contribute to North Carolina’s economy, reinforcing our region’s status as a clean technology and advanced manufacturing hub.” Jordan Whichard, Deputy Secretary of the N.C. Department of Commerce.
Durham Mayor Leo Williams presented Kempower with a formal proclamation, declaring June 4, 2024, as ‘EV Charging Awareness Week’ to honor Kempower’s contributions to environmental sustainability and economic growth.
Key Facts and Figures
- Production: The Durham facility is one of Kempower’s four factories worldwide, with the other three located in Lahti, Finland.
- Charging Sessions: 7,482,770 sessions in 2023 with Kempower chargers.
- Energy Charged: 196 GWh in 2023 with Kempower chargers.
- Employment: The Durham facility will create approximately 300 jobs.
- Economic Impact: Expected to add over $700 million to North Carolina’s economy in the next decade.
- Sustainability Commitment: Targets include 100% carbon neutrality by 2035, a fully electric vehicle fleet, 100% fossil-free electricity by 2025, zero landfill waste by 2025, and limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius in alignment with the Paris Agreement.
- Reliability: Delivery reliability over 90% and Charger uptime over 99%.
