Federal and State EV Charging Funding Opportunities
Numerous Federal and State opportunities await those interested in installing EV chargers in California. The Biden Administration, operating at a Federal level, has dedicated resources to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This dedication has led to the establishment of several programs that bolster the advancement of EV infrastructure. In California, funds have been injected into the federal NEVI program and the state’s initiative to cultivate EV charging infrastructure within its borders. While the primary focus of these opportunities centers around charger allocation, there exists the flexibility to employ these funds for installation services as well.
California NEVI Program
The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program aims to develop a network of DC fast chargers throughout the National Highway Systems. The NEVI program is a part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by supporting clean energy and transportation. Total funding for the NEVI Program is $5 billion, with California receiving a $384 million share over 5 years. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the California Energy Commission (CEC) are overseeing the implementation of the NEVI Program in California.
The CEC will conduct a Grant Funding Opportunity (GFO) for those keen on acquiring, installing, owning, operating, or maintaining EV chargers at NEVI-compliant stations. The inaugural GFO planning meeting is slated for September 2023.
By August 2022, California has established 55 Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs), which comprise 19 Interstates, 32 State Routes, and 4 US Routes. A linked map provides insight into the locations of the Electric Fuel Corridor Groups. These AFCs will be divided into segments, with primary funding directed towards segments most lacking in infrastructure.
The DC fast charge stations created by the NEVI program will have at least four 150 kW combined Charging System connectors and stations will be no further than 50 miles apart.
Maps of the Alternative Fuel Corridors
CFI Program
The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant (CFI) Program was established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will receive $2.5 billion over 5 years to create accessible EV charging and infrastructure.
Although the application deadline for the 2023 fiscal year has already passed, this program and others under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law could be relevant to consider being involved in by partnering with eligible applicants in the future.
State Funding
Golden State Priority Project
The Golden State Priority Project (GSPP) supplies rebates for DC fast charger installation in a range of eligible site types, including places of business. The project has $38 million allocated with up to $100,000 available for each charging port. Sites must be in specific counties of northern or southern California regions in disadvantaged or low-income communities. Applications will be accepted from September 13, 2023; until November 17, 2023.
2023 Clean Air Grants for Infrastructure
The 2023 Clean Air Grants for Infrastructure Program provides grants of $10,000 to $250,000 for EV charging projects in various locations, including businesses. Grant allocation is focused on projects in disadvantaged and low-income communities as well as publicly available sites. Applications are open from July 24, 2023; until September 1, 2023.
Inland Counties Incentive Project
The Inland Counties Incentive Project provides rebates for level 2 chargers and DC fast chargers at various business sites in specific inland counties of California, although the funds remaining for each charger type depend on the county. Level 2 chargers may receive up to $6,000 for each connector and DC fast chargers may receive up to $80,000 for each connector. Applications are due by July 31, 2023.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station Program
The Electric Vehicle Charging Station Program provides incentives for the installation of EV charging stations at eligible sites, including places of business, in the Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District. Accepted projects will be reimbursed for 50% to 70% of total costs and a specific application deadline is not provided.
California’s EV charging funding programs, driven by federal and state efforts, lay a strong foundation for sustainable transportation. From the ambitious NEVI Program to localized initiatives like GSPP and Clean Air Grants, these opportunities shape a greener future.
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