Colorado State University E-Micromobility Charging Study
Colorado
Project Summary
Colorado State University (CSU) is a Platinum-Level Bicycle Friendly University, and nearly half of its faculty, staff, and students get to campus by taking the bus, biking, walking, or sharing a ride. E-micromobility options like e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-skateboards have also grown in popularity, with 39% of the campus community already riding one. That growth raised a new question for CSU: how could it support safe charging on campus while still encouraging uptake of these promising new modes? Charging e-micromobility devices indoors carries a real risk, because a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery can spark a dangerous, difficult-to-extinguish fire. To find a safer solution, CSU partnered with Toole Design to explore convenient outdoor charging options for e-micromobility on campus.
Our team evaluated outdoor charging technology options and interviewed multiple universities piloting e-micromobility charging to learn lessons that could be applied at Colorado State. We then analyzed all campus buildings for potential charging needs and site suitability. From that analysis, we recommended five priority pilot sites and developed concept plans to deploy a variety of charging equipment.
With these recommendations, an implementation plan, and guidance for future campus-wide expansion, CSU is equipped to work with vendors on a pilot for safe and accessible charging on campus.