Electric Vehicle Registrations Surge in Northeast Florida
Jacksonville, FL — The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is on the rise in Northeast Florida, with significant increases in registrations reported over the past year. According to research from the EV data group IHS Markit, both Duval and St. Johns counties have seen remarkable growth in EV ownership.
What’s Happening
From April 2023 to April 2024, St. Johns County experienced a staggering 32% increase in the registrations of fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This translates to a rise from 4,798 registrations in 2023 to 6,313 in 2024. Duval County followed closely behind, reporting a 30% increase in registrations during the same timeframe, jumping from 6,343 to 8,259 registrations.
Why It Matters
The surge in electric vehicle registrations is part of a larger trend across Florida. Statewide, EV registrations increased by nearly a third over the last year, with nearly 300,000 total electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles now registered in the state. Among these, approximately 244,000 are fully battery electric vehicles.
Where It’s Happening
The increase in electric vehicles is especially evident in the Northeast Florida region, particularly in counties powered by Florida Power & Light (FPL). The electric utility is actively responding to this growth by expanding its network of public charging stations.
Infrastructure Development
In alignment with the growing number of electric vehicles, FPL’s EVolution program plans to enhance charging infrastructure. Currently, there are several public charging stations available along Florida’s highways, with five located in St. Johns and Nassau counties. The utility aims to install more fast chargers in St. Augustine as soon as the new year begins.
Statements from FPL
Crystal Stiles, executive director of development for distributed technologies and mobility at FPL, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting EV adoption. “As electric vehicle registrations continue to surge across Florida, FPL is committed to providing comprehensive charging solutions that support EV adoption and create a seamless experience for drivers,” she stated. Stiles added, “Our FPL EVolution public charging network is a valuable boost for Florida’s EV owners who need access to fast, reliable, and convenient charging options.”
The Future of Electric Vehicles
As more residents in Northeast Florida transition to electric vehicles, the demand for accessible charging infrastructure will only grow. FPL’s proactive approach to enhance their charging network is aimed at meeting this emerging need and supporting the sustainability goals of the community.
With the number of electric vehicles on the road increasing, residents can expect more charging stations to be built, ensuring that both current and prospective EV owners have reliable options available. This move not only addresses the growing concern for the environment but also encourages economic development within the region.
St. Johns and Duval counties are setting a precedent that may influence other communities to follow suit in promoting electric vehicle usage, paving the way for a greener future.
