Sept. 29, 2026
Dairyland Power Cooperative and Price Electric Cooperative are breaking ground on the Prentice Solar Electric Vehicle (EV) Hub at the R Store Truck & Travel Center in Prentice, Wis., which is operated by a subsidiary of ARKO Corp. (Nasdaq: ARKO), one of the largest convenience store operators in the United States. The project will add four fast electric vehicle chargers, a solar canopy and battery storage at the intersection of U.S. Highway 8 and Wisconsin Highway 13.
The project was made possible through assistance from a U.S. Department of Energy federal grant opportunity. Construction will begin this fall, with completion expected in summer 2027. The hub will give residents and travelers another fast-charging option in northern Wisconsin while also supporting the local electric system.
“Grant funding helps our cooperative system invest in infrastructure that strengthens the communities we serve,” said Dairyland President & CEO Brent Ridge. “We look forward to the value this project will bring to Prentice and northern Wisconsin.”
A key benefit is the battery system, which is designed to operate independently from the grid during an outage. When stored energy is available, it will help keep essential travel center services running, including fuel pumps, the convenience store and EV charging.
“Price Electric is proud to support a project that will enhance both energy resilience and transportation in our community,” said Jeff Olson, CEO of Price Electric Cooperative. “The utility-scale battery will allow the Prentice Truck and Travel Center to continue operation during an extended outage, helping maintain critical services. This added reliability will benefit Price Electric members, travelers and emergency response efforts in our service territory.”