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Chicago's fast-charging network up and running under NRG eVgo

Chicago's long-delayed fast-charging network for plug-in vehicles is up and running after being taken over by the NRG Evgo program that's underway in Texas as well as the Pacific Northwest, Phoenix, Nashville and Washington, DC.

NRG Evgo is partnering with Chicago-based JNS Holdings Corp. to deploy direct-current (DC) fast chargers throughout the Chicagoland area. The system will be complemented by the "No Charge to Charge" program NRG has with Nissan. Under that program, those who buy or lease Nissan Leaf electric vehicles get two years of free fast-charging through the NRG Evgo. Nissan first announced "No Charge to Charge" for Texas last September.

While NRG Evgo didn't disclose the number of stations to be deployed, the Chicago Tribune said there were about 17 NRG eVgo stations throughout Chicago and would be about 30 in operation by mid-January. Under NRG eVgo's EZ-Charge program, a single car can be used at eVgo stations as well as stations from the Blink and AeroVironment networks. Earlier this year, Evgo said it was debuting its networks in 10 US markets this summer, with another 15 markets slated for mid-2015. There's more in NRG's press release below.
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NRG eVgo to Bring Electric Vehicle Fast Charging to Chicago
Charging Infrastructure Overhaul and Expansion will make Driving Electric Easy in Chicago

November 14, 2014 11:27 AM Eastern Standard Time

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NRG eVgo, a subsidiary of NRG Energy, Inc., is expanding its electric vehicle (EV) charging offerings to the Chicago market. In partnership with Chicago-based JNS Holdings Corp., eVgo will operate a comprehensive and reliable network of direct current (DC) fast chargers to provide range confidence for Chicagoland EV drivers.

"DC fast chargers are the fastest EV chargers on the market today and can charge an EV in less than 30 minutes"

JNS partnered with eVgo, a recognized leader in DC fast charging services, to restore the existing DC fast chargers in Chicago. eVgo will manage the operation of the existing DC fast chargers including networking, back office support and customer service.

"A robust charging station network is critical to broad deployment of electric vehicles. The City of Chicago is pleased that NRG has chosen to expand its eVgo charging network here," said Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

According to Brian Howe, Chief Executive Officer of JNS Holdings, "Through the joint efforts of JNS and eVgo, we have already brought most of the DC fast chargers back online with JNS local expertise and eVgo DC fast charging experience, we are on track to restore these chargers into a great experience for EV drivers."

In the coming months, eVgo will also add additional DC fast charging sites to the Chicagoland area to further improve the charging coverage and make it a truly comprehensive network.

"DC fast chargers are the fastest EV chargers on the market today and can charge an EV in less than 30 minutes," said Arun Banskota, President of NRG eVgo. "With the comprehensive DC fast charger network in Chicago today and the new stations we will bring online, eVgo can give EV drivers the confidence to drive wherever in Chicago they need to go and make buying an EV a very real option for all Chicagoans."

This fast charging network supports eVgo's partnership with Nissan to expand the "No Charge to Charge" program to the Chicago market. Already in 12 markets, "No Charge to Charge" is a first-of-its-kind partnership that provides Nissan LEAF buyers with complimentary 24-month access to the eVgo network, as well as other EV charging networks, using a single EZ-Charge access card*.

"At NRG eVgo, we are committed to the future of driving electric," continued Mr. Banskota. "Together with partners like Nissan, we can deliver innovative solutions like 'No Charge to Charge' that empower more Chicagoland drivers to go electric."

With over 160 fast charge stations currently installed, eVgo is building a comprehensive network of fast-charging sites in the U.S. as well as the infrastructure to support charging at residences and workplaces. By expanding to the Chicago market, eVgo furthers its commitment to support all EV drivers wherever and however they choose to charge.

For more information about eVgo charging plans available to Chicagoland EV drivers, visit nrgeVgo.com.

*Consumers can find chargers eligible for "No Charge to Charge" at www.ez-charge.com/stations, PlugShare.com or via the PlugShare app for iOS or Android.

About NRG eVgo

The NRG eVgo SM network gives electric vehicle (EV) owners new freedom and range confidence via home and workplace charging docks, plus a network of fast charging stations conveniently located at retailers along major transportation corridors within eVgo cities. Service plans offered by eVgo can provide EV owners a home or workplace charger and use of eVgo's Freedom StationĀ® sites and other public charging stations. eVgo is a subsidiary of NRG Energy, Inc., a Fortune 250 company at the forefront of changing how people think about, buy and use energy. Through eVgo, NRG will provide access to hundreds of public charging sites across the United States. To find out more, or to join the eVgo network, visit www.nrgeVgo.com. Connect with eVgo on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @nrgeVgo.

About JNS Holdings Corporation

JNS Holdings Corporation, through its subsidiaries, operates as an electrical contractor in the United States. The company specializes in temperature control installations and various specialty electrical works throughout the greater Chicago area. It provides design and installation services, including temperature control installations; fire alarm and life safety installations; and power distribution, design build, commercial constructions, computer and communication cabling, and lighting control installations. The company also installs electric car charging stations in Chicago, as well as leases vehicles, trailers, scissor lifts, and construction tools and equipment. JNS Holdings Corporation was incorporated in 1994 and is headquartered in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

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