The California Energy Commission (CEC) has announced a game-changing opportunity for innovators, entrepreneurs, and organizations looking to make a significant impact on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. With a commitment of up to $40.5 million in grant funds, the CEC’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program (NEVI) is set to transform California’s EV charging landscape.
In an effort to accelerate the deployment of high-powered direct current fast chargers (DCFC) for EVs, California’s NEVI Formula Program aims to establish an interconnected network that enhances data collection, access, and reliability.
Key Details and Application Process
The grant funding opportunity is open to a wide range of private entities, except investor-owned utilities. Applicants will need to create a user account using the Energy Commission Agreement Management System (ECAMS) portal to submit their proposals. It’s important to note that grant agreements will include specific terms and conditions, so a thorough understanding of these requirements is crucial for a successful application.
The submission deadline for applications is January 26, 2024, with a deadline for questions on November 22, 2023. As part of the selection process, applicants must choose one of six identified corridor groups, and each applicant is limited to one submission per corridor group. The selected projects should aim to deploy a minimum number of new charging stations and charging ports as specified within the solicitation guidelines.
Meeting Federal Requirements for California’s Nevi Formula Program
To align with federal regulations, projects awarded under this grant will need to comply with various acts, including the Build America, Buy American Act, Davis Bacon Act, National Environmental Policy Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other relevant federal and state requirements. The California Energy Commission will provide detailed terms and conditions that specify these obligations.
Location and Accessibility
The proposed charging stations must be situated within California, along one of the specified corridor groups. To ensure accessibility and convenience for EV users, the charging stations should be located within one mile of the identified corridor segment’s nearest off-ramp. Furthermore, these stations should be easily accessible and safely accommodated, making it convenient for light-duty EVs.
Match Funding Requirement
Applicants should be aware that they are required to provide a match of at least 50% of the total project cost. Match funding can include cash or in-kind contributions that will be used in the execution of the project. The match share percentage is calculated by dividing the total match share contributions by the total allowable project cost.
Driving California Towards a Sustainable Future
California’s NEVI Formula Program is a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. This grant funding opportunity is an invitation to innovators and organizations to be part of a transformational shift towards a greener and more sustainable California. For those interested in making a lasting impact on the state’s EV charging network, the NEVI Formula Program is a remarkable opportunity to drive California forward in its commitment to clean energy and transportation.
For more information, please visit the official website of California Energy Commission.
