Tennessee State Parks, part of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), is partnering with automaker Rivian to install Rivian Waypoint EV charging stations at Tennessee State Parks. The goal is to have public charging stations available at all 56 Tennessee State Park locations.
“As Tennesseans increasingly rely on electric vehicles, our state parks can play a significant role to enable recreation in all corners of our state,” TDEC Commissioner David Salyers said. “TDEC is committed to clean air, and the shift toward electric vehicles is an excellent step forward for air quality.”
Rivian will oversee the design and installation of the Level 2 chargers, which are open to all vehicles on the road today and can provide up to 11.5 kilowatts of power. EV charging at the parks will initially be free and drivers will be able to manage their vehicle’s charging session via the Rivian app. Rivian will also provide any necessary utility upgrades associated with the charger, as well as cover all network access fees, equipment service, and maintenance for 10 years.
TDEC’s Office of Energy Programs (OEP), the State Energy Office for Tennessee, played a key role in facilitating the partnership between Rivian and Tennessee State Parks. OEP performed initial outreach regarding the EV charging opportunity with Rivian, provided technical assistance to Tennessee State Parks, and supported TDEC in executing an agreement with Rivian.
The agreement with Rivian is the latest development stemming from TDEC’s commitment to power the growth of EVs across Tennessee and reduce barriers to transportation electrification. Earlier this year, TDEC and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) announced a partnership to develop a statewide EV charging network that will provide fast-charging stations every 50 miles along Tennessee’s interstates and highways. The initiative is designed to add approximately 50 new fast-charging locations throughout the state.