White’s Travel Center in Raphine, VA, will host an open house on Tuesday, Oct. 23, to show off 24 new plug-in pedestals to provide AC power to truckers. The event will also include a driver appreciation celebration and free hot dogs and baked beans.
White’s is located at Exit 205 off I-81/64.
The “shore power” allows truckers to power TVs, microwaves, and other household items as well as run onboard shore power compatible APUs for heating and cooling. Along with cab power, comes six 480-volt plug-ins to power hybrid reefer units.
The event, which runs from noon to 6 p.m., will feature demonstrations of onboard APUs that work in conjunction with shore power. In addition, all power connections will be free.
Shorepower Technologies provided the electrical pedestals through the Dept. of Energy’s Shorepower Truck Electrification Project (STEP), administered through Cascade Sierra Solutions, a non-profit based in Eugene, Ore.
As part of the grand opening of the electric pedestals, the company is offering a limited number of free AC power adapter kits (a $200 value). Installation can be done at White’s for the discounted price of $100.
There will be prize giveaways including power cords, appliances, and gift cards for free electric power from the new pedestals.
For a list of locations offering electrification, go to www.plugintosavings.org.