In the heart of Silicon Valley, Palo Alto and its neighboring communities are leading the charge in the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, boasting some of the highest adoption rates in the United States. Recognizing the ongoing surge in EV popularity, the City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) is taking proactive steps, championing a green revolution through an array of incentives and rebates, especially in the domain of EV charging infrastructure. CPAU is committed to making the transition to EVs seamless for individuals and organizations alike.
Driving Clean Energy with CPAU
As the EV landscape evolves, the installation of EV chargers becomes more than a service to drivers—it represents a significant stride towards a cleaner and more sustainable future. Palo Alto Utilities acknowledges this shift and introduces several programs to facilitate this transition, aligning with its commitment to environmental stewardship. CPAU’s overarching goal is clear: assist customers in transitioning to clean transportation and expand EV charging infrastructure to meet burgeoning demand. Here’s a detailed look at some of the key programs driving this vision:
EV Charger Rebate Program for Non-Profit and Multi-Family Facilities
Open to schools, non-profits, and multifamily properties within the CPAU service area, this program offers rebates of up to $8,000 per Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) or Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger. With a cap of ten ports or EVSEs per City of Palo Alto customer, rebates are limited to a maximum of 75% of the total project installation costs, capped at $80,000 per service address. Requirements include shared parking locations, ADA compliance, and Level 2 EVSEs or higher. Recipients are encouraged to share information about their EVSE on the US Department of Energy Alternative Fuel Data Center website.
EV Charging Technical Assistance Program
Tailored for schools, non-profits, multifamily properties, and small to medium businesses, this program provides personalized, cost-free technical assistance to support the installation of EV charging infrastructure. It eases the complexities of EV charger installation.
Transformer Upgrade Rebate Program
This program assists in covering costs associated with infrastructure upgrades necessary for EV charger installations. It offers rebates to offset fees related to upgrading the City’s transformer and covers substructure work costs for customers upgrading services to the meter. Rebates range up to $10,000 for single-family homes and up to $100,000 for schools, non-profits, public entities, and multifamily/mixed-use properties. Rebates and discounts are subject to funding availability.
DCFC Pilot Rate
An incentive program for Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) locations, this program provides a rebate to maintain an effective electricity rate of 20 cents/kWh. Available for CY2021 and 2022, it ensures competitive pricing for DCFC customers.
CALeVIP Peninsula-Silicon Valley Incentive Project
In collaboration with CALeVIP, this project offers rebates for EV charger purchase and installation costs for commercial customers. Benefits include increased property value, customer attraction, and progress towards sustainability goals. It is open to various property types, including businesses, multifamily properties, nonprofits, government-owned properties, and educational institutions.
Make the Move to a Greener Tomorrow: Joining Palo Alto’s Eco-Conscious Community
As the EV revolution gains momentum, CPAU plays a pivotal role in steering this transition. Their diverse array of programs and rebates not only simplifies the adoption of EVs for individuals and organizations but also contributes significantly to building a cleaner and greener tomorrow. By participating in the installation of EV charging infrastructure, you become an integral part of Palo Alto’s eco-conscious community, enhancing property value, attracting more customers, and playing a pivotal role in advancing sustainability goals. The time to embrace green practices is now, and CPAU stands ready to assist you in making that leap. Join Palo Alto in spearheading the charge towards a sustainable, emissions-free future!
