Breaking: Aspen, Colorado, to Expand Public EV Charging by 58%
Aspen, Colorado—a mountain resort town known for its luxury and environmental ethos—is adding 14 new public electric vehicle chargers across seven locations. This represents a 58% increase from the current 24 charging plugs available, according to city officials.
The new Level 2 chargers will be installed by early next year, funded through a combination of state grants and local sustainability initiatives. Aspen currently ranks among the top U.S. towns for EV adoption per capita, but demand still outstrips supply during peak tourist seasons.
Background
Aspen has long prioritized clean energy and transportation electrification. Its current network of 24 public plugs dates back to 2019, when the city partnered with utilities to install the first wave of chargers. However, the number of registered EVs in Pitkin County has more than tripled since then.
“We built the original network for a future that’s already here,” said Sarah Jenkins, sustainability director for the City of Aspen. “This expansion isn’t just about convenience—it’s about keeping our air clean and our streets accessible.” The new sites were chosen based on commuter routes, tourist parking areas, and near affordable housing complexes.
What This Means
For local EV drivers, the additional chargers will significantly reduce waiting times—especially during winter ski weekends when visitors flood the valley. The 14 new plugs will be distributed as follows: four near downtown, two at the Aspen Highlands shuttle lot, four at the airport, two at the Snowmass Village transit center, and two at a new mixed-use development on Main Street.
“Range anxiety is a real barrier for tourists wanting to drive EVs here,” noted Mike Torres, an EV advocate and board member of Colorado EV Alliance. “Adding chargers at key arrival and recreation hubs sends a clear signal: Aspen welcomes electric vehicles.”
The expansion also aligns with Colorado’s goal to have 1 million EVs on its roads by 2030. Aspen’s background in sustainability—including 100% renewable electricity for municipal buildings—makes the town a testbed for how alpine communities can transition to electric transport.
Next Steps
Installation will begin in January 2025, with completion expected by March. The city plans to monitor usage data to inform future charging infrastructure investments. A public feedback session is scheduled for December 18 at Aspen City Hall.
“Every charger reduces reliance on fossil fuels and makes our community more resilient,” Jenkins added. “We’re not stopping at 38 plugs—this is just the next mile.”