California Utilities Begin EV Charger Builds

SDG&E's electric car push; $52.5 million for 3,500 charging stations

Rob Nikolewski, May 16, 2016 San Diego Union-Tribune

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) has begun installing 3,500 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at 350 locations across its territory in its $52.5 million, three-year "Power Your Drive" pilot program to boost EV ownership. Customers charging EVs at the stations will be billed by SDG&E. The pilot phase of the Southern California Edison Charge Ready Program was approved by California’s commission earlier this year, allowing the utility to proceed with the installation of up to 1,500 electric vehicle charging stations in its territory. An even bigger Pacific Gas and Electric program is nearing approval. Opponents argue the California Public Utilities Commission-approved program represents utility interference in the private market. Many EV advocates argue utilities and their rate bases are among the few financing sources with pockets deep enough to expand the infrastructure rapidly. click here for more

click to enlarge

Tweet