On November 15, 2021 the California Energy Commission approved an update to the state’s Clean Transportation Program that will guide $1.4 billion in new investments in zero-emission transportation and manufacturing from 2021-2023. The funding is a six-fold increase for the program, and will help the state achieve ambitious targets for the sector, including phasing out the sale of new gasoline-powered cars by 2035.
“This plan charts the path for Governor Newsom’s historic budget investments in zero-emission transportation infrastructure and manufacturing,” said Lead Commissioner for Transportation Patty Monahan. “These dollars close the 2025 infrastructure funding gap so that access to charging and hydrogen fueling isn’t a barrier for those exploring cleaner transportation options including individuals, businesses and public agencies.”
The plan aims to close remaining infrastructure gaps, and directs at least half the funds to priority communities which have been historically underserved or disadvantaged by the energy system. Specifically, the plan includes:
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$314 million for light-duty electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
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$690 million for medium- and heavy-duty ZEV infrastructure (battery-electric and hydrogen).
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$77 million for hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
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$25 million for zero-and near-zero-carbon fuel production and supply.
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$244 million for ZEV manufacturing.
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$15 million for workforce training and development.
Over $250 million in funding is dedicated to supporting clean transportation manufacturing and workforce development to support the local economy. This comes just as California reached the milestone of selling 1 million electric vehicles in the state. Electric vehicles are also the state’s largest export.
For more information on California’s Clean Transportation Program, click here.