The primary focus of the meeting was the presentation by Tesla, represented by Duncan Prime, on the installation of eight DC fast charging units at the Somerset Hills Shopping Center, located on Washington Valley Road. Tesla’s proposal required preliminary and final major site plan approval, along with limited bulk variance and design waiver relief. The primary variances requested were for the placement of utility equipment within the front yard setback and minimal lighting during overnight hours. The site is categorized under the VN Village neighborhood zoning district, and the proposal includes no structural alterations beyond the installation of charging stations in existing parking spaces.

Henry Misus from Tesla provided a detailed explanation of the charging stations’ functionality, describing them as high-power units designed for travelers needing quick charging options. Misus assured that the stations would operate autonomously, with safety measures in place to prevent electrical faults. He emphasized that charging times would generally range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the vehicle’s battery state, and noted that the stations would be compatible with various electric vehicle brands, not just Tesla.

Traffic implications were a concern for the board, with members noting that the charging stations could attract additional customers to the shopping center. Misus explained that Tesla’s navigation system would direct drivers to the nearest available stations, integrating with the vehicle’s user interface. He emphasized that the network now supports a variety of electric vehicles.

The board also discussed security and lighting, with concerns raised about the adequacy of these measures at night. It was clarified that basic lighting would be provided primarily for security reasons, and that users would predominantly visit during the shopping center’s operational hours. The absence of surveillance cameras at the stations was noted, though it was confirmed that some vehicles come equipped with cameras.

Further discussions involved the potential for congestion, referencing high traffic at a nearby Wawa due to limited charging stations. Tesla’s strategy to address this includes building additional stations as needed and utilizing real-time navigation features to direct users to available charging units, thereby mitigating queuing issues.

Civil Engineer Mr. Patel presented the site plans for the proposed installation, detailing that the eight chargers, a supercharger cabinet, a 600-amp switchboard, and a utility transformer would be installed in the eastern section of the shopping center’s parking lot. The plans include additional landscaping around the charging equipment for screening purposes, along with adjustments to existing light poles to ensure adequate illumination.

The board evaluated the project’s alignment with zoning regulations, noting that while variance relief was necessary due to front yard setback issues, the increase in impervious coverage was minimal. The project would increase coverage from 86.6% to 86.74%, a change described as negligible. The professional planner underscored the proposal’s support of state goals to electrify transportation and reduce emissions, highlighting its environmental benefits.

The meeting concluded with a vote to approve the preliminary and final site plan for the Tesla charging stations, subject to standard conditions and further review by township planners. This approval allows Tesla to proceed with the installation, provided additional requirements are met.