Communities in Charge

California Energy Commission (CEC)

What does it fund?

Implemented by CALSTART, Communities in Charge offers rebate incentives for Level 2 electric vehicle chargers where communities live and gather. Priority is given to shovel-ready projects and provides at least 50% of funding to locations within disadvantaged or low-income communities. The project is designed to swiftly deploy electric vehicle charging ports through streamlined access to incentive funds while providing outreach, engagement, and technical assistance.  

Who is eligible for funds?

Funding is open to public and private entities in California.

How does this program provide benefits to priority populations?

Communities in Charge funds zero-emission vehicle infrastructure projects, enabling the use of clean vehicles which emit less emissions than comparable conventionally fueled vehicles. The program may reduce criteria air pollutant and toxic air contaminant emissions within disadvantaged and low-income communities by funding zero-emission vehicle infrastructure in these communities.

At least 50% of Communities in Charge project funding must be for charging installations in low-income and/or disadvantaged communities. The program also provides economic benefits by supporting jobs for manufacturing, installation, maintenance of zero-emission vehicle infrastructure, and by reducing transportation costs relative to conventionally fueled vehicles.

How do I access funds?

Applications are considered for incentive funding through competitive scoring with priority given to project readiness and location within disadvantaged and low-income communities, with the highest readiness tier funded first. Applications are submitted via an online platform located on the program website.

Funding timeline

The application window closed on January 31, 2025. Potential applicants are encouraged to visit the program website for more information.

Refer to the program website for additional information.

Cumulative Statistics

This is a new program and has not yet implemented any GGRF funds.