Revolutionizing the Upper Peninsula How Opening a Public EV Charging Station Can Boost Local Business

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Yet, for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, the region remains a challenge. As of January 2026, only 7 out of 15 counties in the UP have public fast chargers (DCFC), and just 9 counties offer any Level 2 charging options, many of which are at private locations like hotels. This limited infrastructure restricts EV travel and business growth in the area. Imagine being the first to open a public EV fast charger in your county—this could transform local commerce and attract more visitors.

Public EV fast charging station in Michigan's Upper Peninsula

The Current State of EV Charging in the Upper Peninsula

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development reported 216 licensed motor fuel establishments in the UP as of December 2025. Despite this, Plugshare.com lists only 10 public DC fast charging sites across the entire region. Level 2 chargers, which take longer to charge but are more common, are available in only 9 counties, often at locations not open to the general public.

The UP liquid fuel locations in RED and DCFC locations in BLACK.

This gap means EV drivers face range anxiety and limited options when exploring the UP. Visitors who rely on electric vehicles may avoid the area altogether, reducing potential tourism revenue. Local businesses miss out on the chance to serve this growing market.

Why Public EV Charging Stations Matter for Local Businesses

Installing public EV chargers can bring several benefits to communities in the UP:

• Attract more visitors: EV drivers plan trips around charging availability. A public fast charger can make your county a convenient stop.

• Increase customer dwell time: While charging, drivers often visit nearby shops, restaurants, or attractions.

• Support local economy: More visitors mean more spending at local businesses.

• Future-proof your community: As EV adoption grows, early investment in charging infrastructure positions your county as EV-friendly.

• Create new business opportunities: Charging stations can be paired with amenities like cafes, convenience stores, or outdoor gear shops.

  
  

Examples of Successful EV Charging Integration

Several rural areas across the U.S. have seen positive impacts from adding public EV chargers:

• In Vermont, small towns with public fast chargers reported increased foot traffic in local stores.

• A gas station in rural Oregon added DCFC units and saw a 20% rise in convenience store sales within six months.

• Tourist destinations in Colorado installed Level 2 chargers at trailheads, encouraging longer visits and boosting local guide services.

  
  

These examples show that even modest investments in EV infrastructure can lead to measurable economic benefits.

How to Get Started with Installing a Public EV Charger

If you’re interested in becoming the first to offer public EV charging in your county, here are practical steps:

1. Assess demand and location: Identify popular travel routes, tourist spots, or business hubs where a charger would be most useful.

2. Choose the charger type: DC fast chargers provide quick top-ups, ideal for travelers. Level 2 chargers are less expensive and suit longer stops.

3. Find funding options: Look for grants from state or federal programs supporting EV infrastructure. Some utilities offer incentives.

4. Partner with local businesses: Collaborate with stores or restaurants to create charging hubs that benefit all parties.

5. Plan for maintenance: Ensure chargers are regularly serviced to keep them reliable and user-friendly.

6. Promote your station: List it on platforms like Plugshare and local tourism websites to attract EV drivers.

   
   

Overcoming Challenges in the Upper Peninsula

The UP’s remote and rugged terrain can make installing EV chargers more complex:

• Power supply: Some areas may need electrical upgrades to support fast chargers.

• Weather conditions: Chargers must withstand harsh winters and heavy snow.

• Limited internet connectivity: Some chargers require reliable data connections for payment and monitoring.

  
  

Working with experienced EV infrastructure providers and local utilities can help address these challenges.

The Broader Impact on the Upper Peninsula Community

Beyond business growth, expanding EV charging supports environmental goals by encouraging cleaner transportation. It also signals that the UP welcomes innovation and sustainability, attracting new residents and investments.

Local governments can play a role by streamlining permitting processes and offering incentives to businesses that install chargers. Community awareness campaigns can educate residents and visitors about the benefits of EVs and charging access.