Sonoma and Mendocino Selected for Regional Electric Vehicle Charging Installation Incentive Project
The California Energy Commission is partnering with Sonoma Clean Power (SCP) and four local air districts to launch an incentive project with investments potentially reaching $6.75 million to expand publicly accessible electric vehicle charging (EV) infrastructure in Sonoma and Mendocino counties.
The incentive project, scheduled to launch in October of 2020, is an initiative of the Energy Commission’s California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP), which works with local community partners to develop and implement regional incentive projects for charging infrastructure that supports the adoption of EVs statewide.
“Following the success of our Drive EV program, in which over 1,250 electric vehicles were incentivized, we have shifted our focus to increasing the number of publicly available EV charging stations in our service territory. We are thrilled to be working with the Energy Commission on this effort that will help lead to even more local EV adoption,” said Geof Syphers, Chief Executive Officer of Sonoma Clean Power.
“The Energy Commission is excited to work with all our partners on this project to increase access to convenient charging for electric vehicles in Sonoma and Mendocino counties,” said Commissioner Patty Monahan of the Energy Commission. “By expanding the State’s charging network, CALeVIP projects like this one help the State transition to zero-emission transportation, provide cleaner air, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
The Sonoma Coast Regional Incentive Project will be implemented by the Center for Sustainable Energy (CSE) and funded primarily by the Energy Commission’s Clean Transportation Program (also known as the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program).
The Energy Commission is proposing to provide $5.1 million towards the regional project upfront, with SCP contributing $1.5 million through CALeVIP over three years. MCAQMD and the RCPA will lend technical support and resources to the project. The NoSoCoAir will provide an additional $150,000 over three years for projects installed within its jurisdiction, and chargers installed in BAAQMD territory may be eligible to receive additional incentives through the District’s Charge! program.
“NoSoCoAir is proud to partner with state and local agencies to ensure a sustainable, green future for the residents and visitors of Sonoma and Mendocino counties,” said Rob Bamford, Executive Officer of the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District.
“The development of EV infrastructure in our communities is a substantive step in the effort to reduce GHG and other emissions that will improve the quality of life throughout the region. This project will open the door for urban and rural communities to adopt zero-emission vehicles,” Bamford added.
Currently, there are an estimated 460 charging stations available to the public throughout Sonoma and Mendocino counties, including both fast and standard chargers. SCP and its partners in the project expect to significantly increase the number of public chargers in the region, improving the accessibility and convenience of driving an electric vehicle for residents and visitors alike.
The incentive project will provide rebates for Direct Current Fast Chargers (DCFC) and Level 2 chargers. Proposed rebates will offer up to $8,000 per connector for Level 2 chargers, and up to $80,000 per DCFC or 80% of the project’s total cost, whichever is less.
“With growing numbers of car shoppers in Sonoma and Mendocino counties choosing electric vehicles, it is increasingly important that public charging stations be established at convenient locations, along the highways, and at common destinations,” said Andy Hoskinson, CSE’s Senior Manager for EV initiatives. “Local EV sales should increase as area residents realize they can find easily accessible charging stations throughout the region.”
Interested parties, including property owners, contractors, and network providers, can learn more about plug-in EV charging and CALeVIP by visiting CALeVIP.org.
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 the California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission is leading the state to a 100 percent clean energy future. It has seven core responsibilities: developing renewable energy, transforming transportation, increasing energy efficiency, investing in energy innovation, advancing state energy policy, certifying thermal power plants, and preparing for energy emergencies.
About the Center for Sustainable Energy
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 the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District
The Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District (NoSoCoAir) is the regulatory agency responsible for air quality in the northern Sonoma County region. Its mission is to promote and protect the health, welfare, quality of life, and the ecological resources for the residents and visitors of Northern Sonoma County through the effective reduction of air pollutants.
About the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District
The mission of the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District (MCAQMD) is to protect and manage air quality, an essential public resource upon which the health of the community depends.
About the Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Authority
The Sonoma County Regional Climate Protection Authority (RCPA) leads a local government coalition to mobilize regional climate action in Sonoma County. The RCPA provides a forum for local elected officials to engage in dialogue on countywide issues and enables discussions among local and regional entities on a wide range of issues related to greenhouse gas reduction, including planning, program management, and project delivery.
About the Bay Area Air Quality Management District
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) aims to create a healthy breathing environment for every Bay Area resident while protecting and improving public health, air quality, and the global climate. Through incentives and partnerships, the Air District aims to establish the Bay Area as a leading area for emissions reductions in mobile sources, land-use planning, innovative technology, and energy.
