Discover the eco-friendly transformation of Twin Gables Café
Located in Brule, Twin Gables Café & Lounge is famous for its delectable homemade pies and exceptional Friday fish fry. However, the co-owners, Larry and Sherri Hendrickson, along with Sherri’s brother Bill Krawczyk, are also on a mission to promote sustainability.
Recently, they made a significant environmental move by partnering with Francis Energy to introduce a modern electric vehicle (EV) charging station. This initiative is part of a larger project funded by a grant from the Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (WEVI) program. The new charging station will mark the northernmost point for Level 3 chargers, uniquely positioning Twin Gables as a vital pitstop for EV drivers traveling between the Twin Ports and Ashland.
Larry Hendrickson shared that the decision to host the charging station is rooted in the hope of attracting more customers to their establishment while providing a much-needed service. The installation, entirely funded by Francis Energy, will provide two chargers, and the café will receive a modest annual fee for hosting the facility.
As more charging stations pop up across the state, the objective is to alleviate “range anxiety” for EV owners, ensuring they can travel confidently without concerns of running out of power. With plans for this station expected to be completed by late 2024 or early 2025, Twin Gables Café is gearing up to become a sustainable hub for both travelers and locals alike.
Twin Gables Café: A Sustainable Oasis for Electric Vehicle Travelers
### The Eco-Friendly Evolution of Twin Gables Café
Nestled in the heart of Brule, Wisconsin, Twin Gables Café & Lounge is not just known for its mouthwatering homemade pies and signature Friday fish fry; it is also stepping into the future of sustainable business practices. Co-owners Larry and Sherri Hendrickson, alongside Sherri’s brother Bill Krawczyk, are pioneering an eco-friendly transformation by integrating electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities into their offerings.
### Features of the New EV Charging Station
The recent collaboration with Francis Energy to install an advanced Level 3 EV charging station is a groundbreaking initiative. This station will be uniquely positioned as the northernmost point for Level 3 charging in the area, transforming Twin Gables into a crucial rest stop for EV drivers navigating the route between the Twin Ports and Ashland.
– **Modern Charging Capability**: The station will feature two Level 3 chargers, which provide faster charging compared to standard chargers, significantly reducing wait times for users.
– **Funding and Installation**: This installation will be fully funded by Francis Energy through a grant from the Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (WEVI) program, affirming the café’s commitment to sustainability without incurring added costs.
### Benefits of the New Initiative
1. **Attracting More Customers**: Larry Hendrickson emphasizes the dual purpose of the charging station: it aims to draw in more customers while providing a valuable service to the community and travelers.
2. **Reducing Range Anxiety**: With a growing network of charging stations across the state, this initiative seeks to alleviate concerns for EV owners who may fear running out of battery on longer trips.
### Insights into Future Trends
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, more businesses are looking to incorporate charging stations as a service offering. This transition offers an opportunity for cafes and restaurants to become sustainable hubs while enhancing customer loyalty. The anticipated completion of Twin Gables’ charging station is projected for late 2024 or early 2025, marking an exciting chapter for the café and its patrons.
### Pros and Cons of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Cafés
#### Pros:
– **Increased Foot Traffic**: Attracts EV drivers, potentially increasing revenue.
– **Sustainability Image**: Positions the business as eco-friendly, appealing to environmentally conscious customers.
– **Enhances Customer Experience**: Offers patrons a convenient way to charge their vehicles while enjoying a meal.
#### Cons:
– **Initial Setup and Maintenance**: Although funded by an outside entity, the long-term maintenance may be a consideration.
– **Space Requirements**: The need for parking spaces dedicated to charging can limit available customer parking.
### Conclusion
Twin Gables Café & Lounge is setting a precedent in the restaurant industry by embracing sustainability through EV charging infrastructure. This innovation not only positions the café as a forward-thinking establishment but also provides a much-needed service for the growing number of electric vehicle owners. For anyone traveling the route between the Twin Ports and Ashland, Twin Gables is poised to be a must-visit destination.
For more sustainable practices and insights, you can explore sites dedicated to eco-friendly initiatives and innovations in transportation by visiting Environmental Defense Fund.
