California OKs $1.9B for Clean Transportation Infrastructure

TL/DR -

The California Energy Commission plans to invest $1.9 billion through 2027 on projects to expand infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles, including an electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen refuelling network. The investments include over $1 billion for zero-emission battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell truck and bus infrastructure, more than $650 million for light-duty EV charging infrastructure, and $130 million for zero-emission port infrastructure. The initiative aims to facilitate the installation of 40,000 new chargers across the state, significantly expanding the existing network of 94,000 chargers, and half of the investments will benefit priority populations, including disadvantaged or low-income communities.

New California Energy Commission $1.9 Billion Plan for Zero Emissions Infrastructure

The California Energy Commission (CEC) recently approved a $1.9 billion plan to invest in zero-emissions vehicle infrastructure projects through 2027, targeting the expansion of both EV charging and hydrogen refueling networks.

Transportation and fuel production contribute approximately half of California's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and 80% of its air pollutants. To combat this, California aims to achieve carbon neutrality in transportation by 2045. The state has implemented regulations necessitating all new car and SUV sales be zero emissions by 2035, and halting medium- and heavy-duty combustion truck sales by 2036.

The newly approved investment plan provides a blueprint for the CEC's Clean Transportation Program. This initiative funds the development and deployment of zero-emission transportation and fuel technologies, supporting California's energy, clean air, and climate change objectives.

Investments under this plan include over $1 billion for zero-emission truck and bus infrastructure, upwards of $650 million for light-duty EV charging infrastructure, and $130 million dedicated to zero-emission port infrastructure. Additionally, $46 million is set aside for emerging opportunities, and $5 million for zero-emissions vehicle workforce development. The CEC announced that at least 50% of the investments will benefit priority populations, including low-income and disadvantaged communities.

The CEC estimates that the new investment plan will enable the addition of 40,000 new chargers across California, expanding the existing 94,000 charging network, and helping meet the state’s goal of 250,000 chargers in the coming years.

Investment-supported projects will feature direct incentive and rebate programs for a variety of beneficiaries including businesses, non-profit organizations, tribes, and public agencies.

Patty Monahan, Lead Commissioner for Transportation at CEC, stressed the importance of accessibility:

“We need to ensure zero-emission refueling infrastructure is available for everyone. By allocating a majority of funds to benefit low-income and disadvantaged communities, the state is ensuring these communities have better access to chargers and less pollution from trucks and buses.”

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