Alfred University EV charging stations benefit campus, local communities

As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Alfred University has installed new electric vehicle charging stations on campus, providing convenient access for students, faculty, staff, local community members, and visitors who drive EVs.

Three dual-port charging stations-which each can charge two vehicles-were installed outside the Saxon Inn, Alfred University's on-campus hotel, about a month ago. The stations, which support the university's goal of promoting cleaner transportation options and reducing its carbon footprint, feature user-friendly software designed to make charging simple and accessible.

The charging stations were fully funded by INF Associates, a New York-based energy solutions firm specializing in electric vehicle infrastructure, renewable energy, and decarbonization projects. The initiative was led by Stephen Peifer, vice president of sales at INF Associates and an Alfred University alumnus.

"I was thrilled to have the opportunity to give back to the university and support Alfred's sustainability efforts," said Peifer, who earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Alfred in 2007. "Projects like this reflect the university's forward-thinking leadership and continued commitment to innovation."

"Alfred University is proud to partner with INF Associates on this project," Mark Zupan, university president, commented. "The new EV charging stations reflect our commitment to promoting sustainability and greater stewardship of the environment."

Discussions about installing EV charging stations on campus started in fall 2024 after visiting prospective students and their families began inquiring about where they could charge their vehicles. There there were no stations on campus and the nearest public charging facility was 10 miles away, in Hornell. Rob Freeland, assistant director of capital projects at Alfred University, said Aegean, the university's energy advisor, referred Alfred to INF Associates.

The new EV charging stations will benefit not only the students, staff, and faculty and visitors to campus, but also the community at large. "They are open to the public and we hope to see them used as often as possible," Freeland commented.

Each station has a QR code that, when scanned, directs users to an app. In the app, parameters such as charging time, costs to use, and applicable fees, are explained. Freeland said that while there are no immediate plans to have additional EV charging stations placed, it is a possibility. "More could certainly be installed in various strategic places around campus if we see a need and the opportunity presents itself," he said.

The new stations reflect Alfred University's broader sustainability initiatives, which include ongoing investments in energy efficiency, waste reduction, and renewable energy adoption.