California Energy Commission approves $1.9 billion EV and hydrogen fuelling plan

The California Energy Commission approved a plan to invest $1.9 billion through 2027 in zero-emission vehicle infrastructure, including EV charging and hydrogen refuelling networks. With transportation accounting for around half of California's greenhouse gas emissions, the plan models large-scale public funding for charging buildout relevant to India's EV infrastructure ambitions.

The California Energy Commission approved a proposal to invest $1.9 billion through 2027 in infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles and transportation, including EV charging and hydrogen refuelling networks. Transportation, with fuel production, accounts for around half of California's greenhouse gas emissions and 80% of the state's air pollutants. California has set a target for the transportation sector to reach carbon neutrality by 2045 and requires all new car, pickup, and SUV sales in the state to be zero emission, with investments flowing through the Clean Transportation Program.

Businesses, tribes, non-profits, and public agencies are affected through direct incentives and rebate programmes. Investments through 2027 include over $1 billion for zero-emission truck and bus manufacturing, more than $650 million for light-duty EV charging infrastructure, $130 million for zero-emission port infrastructure, $46 million for workforce opportunities, and $5 million for workforce development. At least 50% of funds will help priority populations, including disadvantaged or low-income communities, ensuring broader access to chargers and reduced emissions from trucks and buses.

Affected entities should monitor the rollout of incentive and rebate programmes through 2027 under the Clean Transportation Program. The plan will enable 40,000 new chargers across the state, significantly expanding the existing network of 94,000 chargers, supporting the state's target of 250,000 chargers in the next few years. Businesses and public agencies seeking funding should track eligibility and the priority allocation of at least 50% of funds to low-income and disadvantaged communities.

Key figure — Investment plan: $1.9 billion through 2027