California announces $55 million in new funding for public EV fast charging

California is set to receive $55.2 million in new funding aimed at expanding public fast electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the state. The investment, announced by the California Energy Commission (CEC), will be distributed through the California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP) under its Fast Charge California initiative. Funding will be available via two application windows in late 2026 and early 2027, offering substantial incentives to site owners and developers to accelerate the deployment of DC fast chargers. The first incentive window will provide up to $100,000 per charging port to cover eligible installation costs, while the second will offer up to $55,000 per port for chargers with a minimum output of 150 kW. To qualify, projects must be publicly accessible and ready to build, with all necessary permits and utility designs in place. Priority will be given to locations in tribal areas, disadvantaged communities, and low-income neighbourhoods, with eligible sites including businesses, public facilities, and high-traffic travel corridors. CALeVIP has already demonstrated significant impact, having allocated $54 million to more than 1,200 fast-charging ports across 35 counties in its first funding window. Overall, the programme has supported over 10,500 charger installations statewide, playing a critical role in California’s transition to clean transportation. Spencer Reeder, Director of the CEC’s Fuels Transportation Division, emphasised the importance of expanding fast charging access to meet the needs of the growing EV population and to maintain progress towards the state’s environmental goals. The new funding rounds are expected to further accelerate the deployment of fast chargers, particularly in underserved areas, helping to reduce range anxiety and support wider EV adoption. Interested applicants must ensure their projects are fully prepared before applying, with detailed eligibility criteria and application processes available on the CALeVIP website. This continued investment underscores California’s commitment to building a robust and equitable EV charging network for the future.