California is pushing ahead with an ambitious $1.4 billion investment in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure as part of its goal for an all-electric vehicle future by 2035. The state has announced plans to provide grants and loans over the next four years to fund public charging stations, particularly targeting underserved areas such as rural regions and multifamily housing. This initiative will create an additional 17,000 charging stations, adding to California's already substantial network of more than 152,000 public and shared private chargers.

California's $1.4 billion effort is part of a broader $10 billion commitment to expand EV infrastructure and address the state's air quality issues caused by diesel trucks. The focus of the funding is on light-duty passenger vehicles as well as medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. With additional federal, utility, and private funding, California aims to reach 250,000 chargers statewide.

Patty Monahan, Lead Commissioner for Transportation at the California Energy Commission (CEC), emphasized that the funding plan is focused on “clean air benefits in low-income and disadvantaged communities that need it the most.” The initiative is designed to accelerate EV adoption in communities where access to charging infrastructure is limited.

The funding will be distributed through various mechanisms, including competitive grants, block grants, and direct agreements, all aimed at ensuring equitable access to zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) refueling infrastructure across the state.