The California Energy Commission, or CEC, has launched its largest-ever incentive program to rapidly expand the state’s public electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging network.
The Fast Charge California Project is a $55 million initiative offering to cover up to 100% of installation costs for EV fast chargers at eligible businesses and public sites. The program is part of the state’s ongoing effort to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles.
Program highlights:
The program is a key component of the California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP), which has already supported the deployment of nearly 10,000 chargers since 2017.
The new initiative is unique in its scale and funding structure, as noted by Hannon Rasool, Director, CEC Fuels and Transportation Division.
“This is the biggest CALeVIP project ever. It’s the first to be statewide. And, it’s the first to cover up to 100% of eligible costs.”
To qualify for the program, sites must be publicly accessible and ready to build with a final utility service design and all necessary permits in hand. Eligible locations include a wide range of high-traffic destinations like gas stations, retail centers, and parking lots.
An equitable approach:
A key feature of the project is its focus on equity. The CEC will give priority to applications from tribal areas, disadvantaged communities, and low-income communities. This targeted approach is designed to ensure that the expansion of EV infrastructure benefits all Californians, particularly those areas that are currently underserved.
Evan Wright, Director, EV infrastructure and Operations, Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE), the program’s administrator, said, “State-funded incentives are essential for the rapid and equitable expansion of California’s electric vehicle charging network. This program is designed to get fast chargers in the ground…fast.”
