California is set to expand its electric vehicle infrastructure significantly. The California Energy Commission (CEC) has approved a $1.4 billion investment plan aimed at enhancing the state’s network of electric charging and hydrogen refueling stations. This move supports the state’s goal of becoming a leader in zero-emission transportation.
The newly approved funds will be distributed over four years through competitive grants, with at least half targeted towards lower-income and disadvantaged communities. “An important part of achieving our clean car future is building chargers in every corner of California, especially in neighborhoods historically left behind,” stated Governor Gavin Newsom.
The investment aligns with Governor Newsom’s broader California Climate Commitment, which allocates over $10 billion for zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) and related infrastructure. It also complements federal funding from the Biden-Harris Administration dedicated to clean transportation initiatives.
Currently, California has over 152,000 public and shared private chargers installed. With this new funding, nearly 17,000 additional passenger vehicle chargers are expected statewide. In conjunction with previous investments and other programs, the state aims to reach 250,000 chargers within the next few years.
Since its inception in 2007, the Clean Transportation Program has invested $2.3 billion in projects supporting ZEV infrastructure and alternative fuels. Key benefits include: 63% of funding directed towards disadvantaged communities; nearly 34,700 EV chargers installed or planned; installation or planning of 96 public hydrogen fueling stations; creation of incentives for EV charger installations; funding for truck and bus charging projects; support for zero-emission school buses; manufacturing projects that bolster economic growth; and workforce training programs preparing thousands for careers in clean transportation.
As ZEV sales rise—accounting for over a quarter of all new vehicle sales in California during the third quarter of 2024—the state continues to prioritize clean fuel production and improvements to public transit systems as part of its strategy toward a sustainable transportation future.
