The California Energy Commission announced last week that it approved funding of $341,045 to expand the state's plug-in vehicle charging infrastructure. "These investments in charging infrastructure will support the growing number of plug-in electric vehicles on California roadways," stated Energy Commissioner Carla Peterman. "The availability of this charging infrastructure is crucial to fulfilling the Governor's executive order to significantly expand the market for zero emission vehicles in California, which will improve air quality, reduce petroleum use and create jobs."
The Governor's executive order, which was signed into law on March 23, 2012, sets a statewide target of 1.5 million zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs) on California roadways by 2025. Additionally, the order calls for California's charging infrastructure to be sized to support 1 million ZEVs by 2020.
This latest round of approved funding will support the installation of Level 2 (240 volt) charging stations at several additional sites throughout the state. For example, the California Department of Housing and Community Development will receive $200,000 to conduct an assessment of the costs and code requirements for installing electric vehicle charging infrastructure in single-family homes, condos and apartments. The process of permitting, if not streamlined, can create long unnecessary delays in installing charging equipment.
Alternative Energy Systems Consulting, Inc. will also receive $69,446 to install five Level 2 eStation Smart Systems on the campus of the University of California, San Diego. The Office of Fleet and Asset Management will receive $41,475 to install nine Level 2 charging stations at the State Garage in Sacramento, and OurEvolution Energy and Engineering will receive $30,124 to construct, maintain and operate two charging stations in Humboldt County.
Why the focus on Level 2 and not on Quick Charge units? According to research conducted by the California Energy Commission, "Level 2 systems are expected to become the most commonly used charging systems, and are suitable for home, business fleet, and public facilities," whereas quick-charge station are claimed to be "particularly suited for use at highway rest stops."
Hehe, looks like its going to be the Gravy Train for "Consultants".. That's ok, they need to eat too.