Published on 07/15/2020
On July 8th, the application for the Sonoma Coast Incentive Project officially opened. The Sonoma Coast Incentive Project promotes easy access to electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure with $6.75M in incentives over the next three years for the purchase and installation of public, workplace, and multi-family EV chargers in Sonoma and Mendocino counties.
To date, the initial $5.65M has been provisionally reserved, with an additional $18.35M in applications requested, demonstrating the enormous interest and need for expanding local EV charging infrastructure.
Through the Sonoma Coast Incentive Project, qualifying sites can apply for rebates to help cover eligible equipment and installation costs, with additional incentives for multi-family properties and sites within unincorporated, low-income, or disadvantaged communities.
Businesses, nonprofits, multi-family properties, and government entities can apply for rebates of up to $7,500 per Level 2 connector and up to $80,000 per direct current (DC) fast charger. A minimum of 25% of both Level 2 and DC fast charger funds will be distributed to disadvantaged and low-income communities in Mendocino County and to unincorporated communities in Sonoma County.
The Sonoma Coast Incentive Project is part of statewide efforts to increase EV adoption through the California Electric Vehicle Incentive Project (CALeVIP). Implemented by the Center for Sustainable Energy, CALeVIP receives funding from the California Energy Commission’s (CEC’s) Clean Transportation Program. Its purpose is to help California reach its goal of 5 million EVs by 2030 by supporting those vehicles with 250,000 chargers statewide.
After sellout successes in other parts of the state, the CEC is proud to fund this new CALeVIP project and bring the latest EV charging technology to Mendocino and Sonoma counties. Working with local partners ensures infrastructure is installed where it’s needed most to help all Californians take part in our clean energy future.
Commissioner
California Energy Commission
Sonoma Clean Power and the Northern Sonoma County Air Pollution Control District partnered with CALeVIP for the Sonoma Coast Incentive Project.
“This partnership with CALeVIP furthers Sonoma Clean Power’s mission of turning the tide on the climate crisis, through bold ideas and practical programs. Increasing access to public EV charging, particularly in rural and disadvantaged communities, is a key priority for our agency,” said Nelson Lomeli, Programs Manager at SCP.
By providing EV charging, businesses can attract more customers, build customer loyalty, and increase property value. Increasing charging accessibility also helps the state of California reach its ambitious goals to combat greenhouse gas emissions. CALeVIP has brought nearly $71 million in incentive funding to communities across California, and those communities have reaped the benefit for their business, property value, and customers.
Eligible parties in Mendocino and Sonoma counties can apply for the Sonoma Coast Incentive Project here, although all new applications are being added to a waitlist.
To learn more about the project, visit our CALeVIP webpage.
*Note: The total funding request of the received applications was calculated on July 17, 2020. This number may have since changed. View the funding chart displayed in real-time here.
