San Francisco Sun

The City and County of San Francisco has secured a $15 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program to enhance electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the city. The initiative, led by the San Francisco Environment Department (SFE) in collaboration with several local agencies, aims to increase the city's charging ports by 30% at various locations including garages, lots, and curbside areas.

Mayor Lurie expressed pride in the departments' efforts to bring essential funds into the city. "These are the kinds of proactive collaborations the city will continue to undertake to provide efficient and effective transportation, leverage infrastructure projects to boost economic growth, and keep the city on track to meet our robust climate goals," said Mayor Lurie.

The project plans include installing 270 Level 2 chargers and 30 DC fast chargers in neighborhoods such as Civic Center, Western Addition, Chinatown, Mission, Treasure Island, Bayview Hunters Point, Richmond, Sunset, among others. This development is expected to support the growing community of EV drivers who require accessible rapid charging stations throughout San Francisco.

Environment Department Director Tyrone Jue highlighted the significance of this grant for advancing electric vehicle adoption in San Francisco. "The collaboration is a testament to our shared climate vision of becoming net-zero emissions by 2040," stated Jue.

Most new Level 2 chargers will be installed using a "dig once" strategy to allow for future expansion that could include additional charging options for e-bikes and e-scooters. The majority of DC fast and Level 2 chargers will be placed in downtown garages and lots owned by the city.

SFMTA Acting Director Julie Kirschbaum emphasized that expanding EV charging access is crucial for reducing transportation sector emissions. "Clean, electric transportation provides better air to all communities," she said.

Port of San Francisco Executive Director Elaine Forbes commended the federal support for this infrastructure project. "These funds help advance the Port’s ongoing environmental stewardship," she noted.

San Francisco's Climate Action Plan targets full electrification of vehicles by 2040. In 2023, zero-emission vehicles accounted for 37% of all vehicle sales in the city. The funding from DOT is vital for meeting current demands and encouraging further EV adoption. Two vendors, EVgo and Connected Kerb, have been selected to install DC fast and Level 2 chargers respectively.

Since 2024, SFE has obtained eight state and federal grants totaling nearly $50 million aimed at enhancing vehicle charging infrastructure among other initiatives.