Three California utilities are renewing their commitments to increase electric vehicle (EV) adoption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across their service areas.
by Staff
January 23, 2017
Photo courtesy of Edison International
2 min to read
Photo courtesy of Edison International
Three California utilities are renewing their commitments to increase electric vehicle (EV) adoption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across their service areas.
Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) submitted applications to the California Public Utilities Commission outlining programs and investments aimed at achieving multiple clean-transportation and emission-reduction goals set by the governor and state agencies. At nearly 40%, transportation is the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in California. The proposals address the need for medium- and heavy-duty vehicle charging infrastructure and offer additional incentives for EV adoption.
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PG&E proposed a five-year project to build "make-ready" electric charging infrastructure for medium- to heavy-duty and off-road fleets. The proposal also includes plans to support and facilitate the installation of fast chargers in Northern and Central California and five one-year projects to simplify charging for residential customers, explore commercial smart vehicle charging, and request third parties to submit potential electrification projects. Nearly 60% of PG&E's electricity comes from greenhouse gas-free resources.
SCE's plan proposes to install charging infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles as well as plug-in buses, forklifts, and other off-road equipment. The utility will explore options for a zero-emission freight movement program when transporting freight inland from the Port of Long Beach. Additional projects include monetary incentives for residential, rideshare, and taxi customers who adopt EVs and installing DC fast charging stations in urban areas. These projects will feature a particular focus on disadvantaged communities that are disproportionately affected by pollution and economic hardship.
SDG&E proposes to install EV charging stations to power ground support equipment at the San Diego International Airport, medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks and forklifts at the Port of San Diego, delivery fleet vehicles, and electric vehicles at up to 90,000 residences. This is an addition to the utility's plan to install EV charging infrastructure at 350 apartments, condos, and businesses through its Power Your Drive program. The plan also includes a special rate that incentivizes EV owners to charge their cars at times of day when clean energy is plentiful and energy prices are low.
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