Have Questions?
We've got the answers. Check below to find out more about how OpConnect and Better Place are ensuring EV drivers will continue to have access to the largest network of charging stations in Hawaii.
General
When will the sale close and when will transfer of the network occur?
​The sale closed on March 8, 2013. OpConnect will immediately take over operations of the network of Better Place Charge Spots. Over the coming weeks and months, OpConnect will work to replace the Better Place Charge Spots with OpConnect charging stations. Sharing the goal of minimizing any transition impact to members and site owners, Better Place and OpConnect are working closely together and meeting with site owners as soon as possible.
Can you tell me about OpConnect?
OpConnect is a technology leader in EV charging systems that operates systems in seven states. OpConnect serves customers that include the U.S. Department of the Navy, Enterprise Rent-a-car, and Doubletree By Hilton. The OpConnect network features some of the most advanced EV charging technology in the industry, including a smartphone payment and reservation system. The OpConnect charging stations are highly advanced and designed to remain on the leading edge with full-color touchscreens, upgradable software and wireless communications. OpConnect is located in Portland, Oregon and manufactures the charging stations in the USA.
How many charging stations are there today? How many sites?
There currently are 77 charging stations at 49 sites on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. They can be found at convenient locations that include office buildings, shopping centers, hotels, resorts, parking garages, private businesses and public venues.
Will OpConnect operate the charging stations or replace them with new ones?
Better Place and OpConnect are working closely together and meeting individually with site owners as soon as possible. Soon thereafter, OpConnect will begin the process of replacing the Better Place Charge Spots with OpConnect charging stations, while minimizing any transition impact to members and site owners.
How many members are there today?
There are currently over 650 drivers registered to charge their plug-in cars via the Better Place network in Hawaii.
New Members
How will this change affect me?
This change should have minimal impact on existing users of the Better Place Hawaii EV Charging network. The existing Better Place charge spots will continue to operate during the transition period and the key fobs that have been issued to Better Place members can still be used to access the Better Place stations. New OpConnect accounts will be created for existing Better Place members. This will allow existing Better Place members access to OpConnect stations as the Better Place charge spots are replaced.
​
During the transition, new OpConnect network members will be issued a Better Place key fob to ensure access to all charging locations. OpConnect charging stations do not require a key fob and can be accessed by smart phone, email address, Wright Express® Fleet card, or credit card (when payment is required).
How does the OpConnect system work? Do I need a key fob and or subscription?
The OpConnect system is one of the most open charging networks in the industry. EV drivers can access stations in a variety of ways, including using their email address, a credit card, an OpConnect Network card, a smartphone, or a Wright Express® Fleet card. New EV drivers without an OpConnect membership can access the stations by using a credit card or entering an email address to sign up for an OpConnect membership.
How much will it cost to charge after the no-cost period ends March 31?
The exact amount has yet to be finalized. Members will receive a notification once a decision has been reached.
Do I need to request a new member card/key fob?
No, OpConnect will set up accounts on the OpConnect network for all existing Hawaii Better Place network members. A password and instructions on how to validate the new account will be emailed to new members in the coming weeks. Since the OpConnect stations do not require the use of a membership card, an EV driver will be able to access OpConnect stations immediately after installation. If a new member would like to have a member card he/she can log into his/her account and request that a card be mailed.
​
OpConnect stations can be accessed in a variety of ways, including using an email address, a credit card, an OpConnect Network card, a smartphone, or a Wright Express® Fleet card.
Will all of the current locations remain open and available for charging?
We expect most, if not all, of the sites will continue to have charging available, however, individual stations may be unavailable for a brief period during the replacement process.
​
Sharing the goal of minimizing any transition impact, Better Place and OpConnect are working closely together and meeting with site owners regarding the transition. Since site owners own the charging stations, the final decision on whether to continue offering charging services is up to each site owner.
Will the new charging stations work with my vehicle?
OpConnect charging stations feature the same Level 2 SAE J1772 connectors that Better Place charging stations had. Any plug-in vehicles compliant to the J1772TM standard should be able to charge successfully on the OpConnect system.
Does OpConnect plan to add more Level 2 charging stations and/or any Level 3 quick-charge stations?
OpConnect has already installed new stations on O’ahu and Maui and plans to continue to expand the OpConnect network of Level 2 charging stations throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Any details of an expansion have not yet been discussed.
Whom do I contact if I have a problem?
The OpConnect toll free phone number should be used for all support issues. The toll free phone number is 1(855) 885-9571.