RAPHINE, VA… The smell of hotdogs and baked beans will fill the air this coming Tuesday, Oct. 23, at White’s Travel Center in Raphine, Va., exit, 205 off I-81/64.  

The free lunch, offered by White’s, is the kickoff to showcase new amenities at the travel center, which include pedestals with 24 plug-ins providing AC-power -- bringing the convenience of electricity into cabs and sleepers.  With “shore power,” truckers can not only power TVs, microwaves, and other household items, but also operate idle-free by simply plugging in a space heater to stay warm, or by running 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 Department 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. What’s more, there will be prize giveaways including power cords, appliances, and gift cards for free electric power from the new pedestals.

To learn more about Truckstop Electrification, and find a list of locations offering power, go to: www.plugintosavings.org.