New in Baden: Charging Stations!
The Sisters of St. Joseph Motherhouse grounds are now home to two ChargePoint electric vehicle charging stations, thanks to support from our partners at Duquesne Light and Driving PA Forward!
We are thrilled to support our dear neighbors in the transition to more Earth-friendly energy technologies that help us to reduce pollution and protect our common home for future generations.
Our prices are designed to cover the cost of the electricity used to charge your vehicle, and to offset some of the fees charged to us by ChargePoint. Our rates are currently $0.20 per kWh.
Our stations provide Level 2 AC charging at 7.7kW, which can add between 12 and 25 RPH (range per hour). Plug in and enjoy a walk on our grounds!
Desiring to meet the environmental challenges of our time and preserve the gifts of creation for future generations, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden are beginning to transition our congregational fleet to electric vehicles.
Why Electric?
Zero Tailpipe Emissions
Less Maintenance and Repairs
Charge at Home
Save Money
However, there are challenges: roadtrips require more planning to find charging stations; mileage is reduced by heating and air conditioning use; and while an expected battery life is 8-10 years or 100,000 miles, they are very expensive to replace.
Cars in the Sisters’ Congregational fleet are often shared, and are used for everything from grocery trips and doctor’s appointments to travel for work, to ministry sites, and to other opportunities where Sisters can love and serve our dear neighbors.
While the Sisters have slowly added hybrid vehicles, the addition of a fully electric car – a preowned Nissan Leaf, purchased earlier this year – is an exciting leap forward, says Sister Sandy Yost, Coordinator of Congregational Vehicles. “It will save us money in the long run, and honor our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint.”
Come along for the ride as Sister Kari Pohl, Congregational Coordinator for Justice and Peace, travels from Baden to her family’s hometown in Westphalia, Michigan in a 100% electric car – the first of its kind in the Sisters’ fleet.
Watch as she settles in for a day of conversations with friends, family, and neighbors at the town’s annual “Cruise-In” and answers questions about everything from how well the car runs to the cost of charging and the public infrastructure needed to support a broader shift away from gas-powered cars.