Tuesday, 27 October 2026, 1:37
Businesses and property owners in California can now apply for financial support to install publicly accessible electric vehicle fast chargers. The California Energy Commission launched the Fast Charge California Project under the California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project, commonly known as CALeVIP. This initiative provides at least $28 million specifically for direct-current fast chargers.
Awards can reach up to $100,000 per charging port. The program aims to cover up to 100 percent of eligible installation costs. Funds will be distributed to eligible projects in the order that their applications are received once the submission period concludes.
To qualify for these incentives, proposed projects must be ready to build. This requirement means applicants must have secured an issued permit and a final utility service design before applying. Eligible locations encompass businesses, public facilities, high-traffic destinations, and sites situated along key travel routes.
The program explicitly prioritizes projects that serve disadvantaged, low-income, and tribal communities. Spencer Reeder, director of the California Energy Commission’s Fuels and Transportation Division, emphasized the necessity of reliable fast charging across the state. He noted that the funding will help expand access and direct state investments toward communities that historically lack adequate charging options.
The Center for Sustainable Energy administers the CALeVIP program on behalf of the Energy Commission. Scott Shepard, senior director of transportation programs at the Center, highlighted the importance of thoughtful site planning and early coordination with utilities to reduce delays and maximize public benefits.
This current funding round builds upon a successful spring 2026 cycle. That initial phase awarded $56.9 million in incentives, supporting over 1,266 ready-to-build fast-charging ports across 58 counties. More than 67 percent of those chargers were designated for disadvantaged, low-income, and tribal communities.
CALeVIP remains the nation’s largest electric vehicle charging incentive initiative. Since its launch in 2017, the program has supported over 10,200 charger installations throughout the state, aiding drivers of the more than 2.2 million light-duty electric vehicles registered in California.
An additional application window is scheduled to open on February 24 and close on May 27, 2027. That future round will offer incentives of up to $55,000 per charging port. Interested parties can utilize the interactive EV Charging Opportunity Finder tool on the CALeVIP website to identify optimal locations based on local registration data and existing infrastructure gaps.
The California Energy Commission serves as the primary state agency responsible for energy policy and planning. Its mission focuses on guiding California toward a 100 percent clean energy future by advancing efficiency, certifying power plants, and investing in renewable energy and transportation innovation.
This latest funding opportunity marks a significant step forward in expanding California's electric vehicle charging network. By targeting ready-to-build projects and prioritizing historically underserved areas, the state aims to ensure equitable access to reliable fast-charging infrastructure for all residents and travelers.
