Hoboken has expanded its electric vehicle charging network without spending any taxpayer money, and the city is actually generating revenue from the stations.
Hoboken just solved a problem most cities struggle with: how to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure without reaching into the budget.
The city partnered with JOLT Charge USA to operate 14 on-street EV charging stations, replacing their previous operator. But what makes this partnership remarkable isn’t just the improved infrastructure—it’s the financial model that’s fueling it.
Traditionally, cities pay upfront for EV installation and maintenance—often relying on state or federal grants to cover the cost. However, JOLT’s model differs significantly.
By utilizing an advertising-supported model, the company is able to eliminate municipal costs entirely. Instead, JOLT funds 100% of the operational and maintenance costs through a digital advertising network built directly into the charging stations. In exchange, Hoboken receives monthly rental fees—creating a sustainable revenue stream with zero taxpayer burden.
It’s a win-win.
The Numbers
Since taking over operations in October 2023, the 14 charging stations have facilitated more than 10,000 charging sessions, enabling more than 700,000 electric-vehicle miles. In a dense urban community like Hoboken—colloquially known as the “Square Mile City”—most residents don’t own a private garage, which makes owning an EV considerably more difficult. But by expanding charging across the city, Hoboken makes meaningful progress toward broader EV adoption.
The curbside charging model is critical for urban equity. It removes a major barrier to electric vehicle ownership for renters who can’t install home chargers. JOLT’s approach prioritizes on-street charging within walking distance of residents—prioritizing urban accessibility over highway stations, Wawa parking lots, and private garage alternatives.
Why It Matters For Climate Goals
The move matters for Hoboken’s ambitious climate goals, including a 2030 net-zero energy target and 2050 carbon neutrality. Each depends heavily on accelerating EV adoption. Making charging convenient and accessible reduces range anxiety—one of the biggest obstacles preventing drivers from making the switch to an electric vehicle.
“Sustainability in Hoboken means making clean transportation practical and accessible for everyone, especially in a city where many residents utilize on-street parking,” said Mayor Emily B. Jabbour. “Expanding curbside EV charging with JOLT Charge strengthens our climate action efforts by bringing reliable charging directly into our neighborhoods. By prioritizing on-street access that’s convenient to our residents, we are advancing a more equitable and lower-carbon future for the Hoboken.”
William Watts, General Manager of JOLT’s U.S. Network & Operations, explained the broader strategy: “Our model prioritizes on-street charging within walking distance of residents rather than relying solely on private garages or highway charging stations. By making it easier for residents to charge, JOLT reduces range anxiety, accelerating EV adoption and reducing transportation emissions.”
Beyond the infrastructure itself, JOLT’s app is incredibly user-friendly. It provides real-time availability information for charging stations and wait-time predictions.
A Solution for Urban Centers
The partnership between Hoboken and JOLT demonstrates how public-private collaboration can address infrastructure gaps, speed up implementation, and do it all without traditional government subsidies.
As EV adoption accelerates nationwide, cities face the challenge of expanding charging networks in a fiscally responsible manner. Hoboken’s model—combining sustainable infrastructure with private sector efficiency and advertising revenue—offers a template other dense urban communities could replicate.
Not only does EV expansion cost the taxpayer nothing, but the City is also generating money doing it. Money that can go toward essential services, additional sustainability measures, and more.
Simply put: It’s a win-win.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.