The California Energy Commission (CEC) today approved a $1.4 billion investment plan that accelerates progress on the state’s electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen refueling goals. These investments will help deploy infrastructure for light, medium, and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) across California, expanding the most extensive charging and hydrogen refueling network in the country.

The plan details how the CEC’s Clean Transportation Program will spend $1.4 billion in state funding over the next four years, with at least 50 percent targeted to benefit priority populations. The funding is part of the $48 billion California Climate Commitment, which includes more than $10 billion for ZEVs and ZEV infrastructure. The state has also received billions from the Biden-Harris Administration for clean transportation.

The funds approved today will result in nearly 17,000 new light-duty chargers statewide. Over 152,000 public and shared private chargers are installed today. Combined with previous investment plans, funding from the federal government, utilities and other programs, the state expects to reach 250,000 chargers in the next few years. In addition to the public network, the state estimates that more than 500,000 private home chargers are installed statewide. “Today’s approval of the investment plan reaffirms California’s commitment to funding zero-emission refueling infrastructure,” said CEC’s Lead Commissioner for Transportation Patty Monahan. “The plan prioritizes clean air benefits in low-income and disadvantaged communities that need it the most. There is no doubt – ZEVs are here to stay in the Golden State.”

The funds will become available over the next four years and distributed to projects through competitive grants. Projects include direct incentive and rebate programs for businesses, non-profit organizations, tribes, and public agencies.