BATAVIA, N.Y. — New York wants zero emissions from cars and trucks sold in our state by 2035. The city of Batavia is getting ready for the move to more electric vehicles with new charging stations downtown.

The City Church has been a staple in downtown Batavia for 20 years.

"We just started as a gathering in our home, and this is what it’s turned into," said Pastor Marty MacDonald, who says he started the church because he has a heart for people. "I had really no aspirations when I was younger to do this, but I’ve always loved people, wanted to help them and make a difference in any and every way that we could."

And loves his city.

"Batavia is the greatest place in the world," MacDonald said. "Has the best food and best coffee, anywhere."

That's why he was one of the first businesses to install electric vehicle stations downtown. It's the result of a partnership between the city of Batavia and National Grid.

"Beyond the city, and beyond even church, it’s the right thing to do in our culture right now," the pastor said. "To help those who are traveling and give them an option to come and stay downtown."

National Grid says transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the northeast. It accounts for 40% of all carbon emissions.  

"We are part of National Grid’s commitment to keeping our environment and our communities safe, and having clean power new accessible," said Whitney Skeans, senior program manager.

National Grid is offering $143 million in incentives to have 16,000 charging stations installed by 2025 as New York state prepares to stop selling gas-powered vehicles by 2035. 

"The time is now," said Skeans. "As we know with most technology, it’s the early adopters that win, that take on the most advantage."

And though 2035 is a ways off, Pastor MacDonald just hopes in the meantime his charging stations will bring in travelers looking for a charge, so they can experience the city he loves so much.

"They can fill their cars up with electric while they’re eating, while they’re having coffee," he said. "And hopefully, some of them will drop church on Sunday morning and participate in one of our services."