Electric vehicle charger incentives bring EV accessibility to Sonoma and Mendocino counties
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2020
Chuck Colgan, Center for Sustainable Energy, 858-244-1184
Lindsay Buckley, California Energy Commission
Kate Kelly, Sonoma Clean Power, 707-486-2952
Electric vehicle charger incentives bring EV accessibility to Sonoma and Mendocino counties
Sonoma Coast Incentive Project increases electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the region
(SANTA ROSA, CA) – The Sonoma Coast Incentive Project promotes easy access to electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure with nearly $7 million in incentives over the next three years for the purchase and installation of public EV chargers in Sonoma and Mendocino counties.
Beginning July 8th, qualifying sites can apply for rebates to help cover eligible equipment and installation costs, with additional incentives for sites within unincorporated, low-income, or disadvantaged communities. Businesses, nonprofits, and government entities are encouraged to apply for rebates of up to $7,500 per Level 2 connector and up to $80,000 per direct current (DC) fast charger. A minimum of 25% of both Level 2 and DC fast charger funds will be distributed to disadvantaged and low-income communities in Mendocino County and to unincorporated communities in Sonoma County.
The Sonoma Coast Incentive Project is part of statewide efforts to increase EV adoption through the California Electric Vehicle Incentive Project (CALeVIP). Implemented by the Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE), CALeVIP receives funding from the California Energy Commission’s (CEC’s) Clean Transportation Program. Its purpose is to help California reach its goal of 5 million EVs by 2030 by supporting those vehicles with 250,000 chargers statewide.
“After sellout successes in other parts of the state, the CEC is proud to fund this new CALeVIP project and bring the latest EV charging technology to Mendocino and Sonoma counties,” said CEC Commissioner Patty Monahan. “Working with local partners ensures infrastructure is installed where it’s needed most to help all Californians take part in our clean energy future.”
CALeVIP partnered with local organizations Sonoma Clean Power (SCP) and the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District for the Sonoma Coast Incentive Project.
“This partnership with CALeVIP furthers Sonoma Clean Power’s mission of turning the tide on the climate crisis, through bold ideas and practical programs. Increasing access to public EV charging, particularly in rural and disadvantaged communities, is a key priority for our agency,” said Nelson Lomeli, Programs Manager at SCP.
By providing EV charging, businesses can attract more customers, build customer loyalty, and increase property value. Increasing charging accessibility also helps the state of California reach its ambitious goals to combat greenhouse gas emissions. CALeVIP has brought nearly $71 million in incentive funding to communities across California, and those communities have reaped the benefits for their business, property value, and customers.
“With more Californians looking to stretch their dollar further, we’re pleased to help close the gap in the demand for publicly accessible chargers for Sonoma and Mendocino county residents. As we see the positive effects of fewer internal combustion vehicles on the roads, it’s even more important to provide charging infrastructure so our communities can easily make the switch to electric and reap the benefits of accessible charging,” said Andy Hoskinson, CSE’s senior manager for EV initiatives.
For more information about the Sonoma Coast Incentive Project, visit https://sonomacleanpower.org/calevip.
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About the California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission is the state’s primary energy policy and planning agency. The agency was established by the California Legislature through the Warren-Alquist Act in 1974. It has seven core responsibilities: advancing state energy policy, encouraging energy efficiency, certifying thermal power plants, investing in energy innovation, developing renewable energy, transforming transportation and preparing for energy emergencies.
About the Center for Sustainable Energy
One simple mission—DECARBONIZE.
The Center for Sustainable Energy® (CSE) is a nonprofit offering clean energy program administration and technical advisory services. With the experience and streamlined efficiency of a for-profit operation, CSE leads with the passion and heart of a nonprofit. We work nationwide with energy policymakers, regulators, public agencies, businesses and others as an expert implementation partner and trusted resource.
About Sonoma Clean Power
Sonoma Clean Power is the public electricity provider for Sonoma and Mendocino counties. SCP’s services and programs are practical, affordable, and inclusive, empowering everyone to be part of the transition toward a clean energy future. To learn more, visit sonomacleanpower.org or call 1 (855) 202-2139.
About Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District
Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District (“NSCAPCD”) is the regulatory agency responsible for monitoring air quality and enforcing air quality laws and regulations within its jurisdiction. To learn more about NSCAPCD visit www.NoSoCoAir.net or call (707) 433-5911.