Meijer’s Got the Juice

Supercenter chain Meijer plans to install electric vehicle charging stations at several of its Michigan stores.

"This is a very exciting step for Meijer as we continue to look for ways to expand our sustainability initiatives,” said Julie Croll, Meijer’s senior VP of properties and real estate. “The key to our success through the years has been innovation, and we look at sustainability the same way. Whether we are providing our customers with reusable bags, placing rooftop wind turbines on stores or offering charging stations for the electric vehicles, we are committed to searching for innovative ways to be green.”

The first charging station was unveiled at the Meijer store in Warren, Mich., and is expected to be followed by stores in Allen Park and Holland. Each store will receive two charging stations, which can be used by Meijer customers at no cost. Providing 120V and 240V options, the charging stations represent the most current vehicle charging technology and meet the SAE J1772 standard adopted by automakers.

The purchase and installation of these units represents an investment of nearly $100,000 by Meijer. In 2011, Meijer plans to expand this initiative by installing additional charging stations in 10 to 20 more stores throughout the Midwest.

Grand Rapids, Mich.-based Meijer operates 195 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky.