California will need widespread consumer adoption of electric vehicles (EV) in order to achieve the state’s environmental and energy goals. But achieving these goals will require a significant boost to EV charging infrastructure, particularly in workplaces, multi-unit dwellings, and fast charge "plazas."

To encourage more charging station investment and deployment, this paper recommends expanded utility investments, at least up to the wiring of new charging stations; reform to commercial electricity rates to encourage more optimal charging times and locations based on grid needs; and expedited permitting and energy data access for charging stations in the most strategic locations to boost EV adoption.

Powering the Savings is the eighteenth paper of the Climate Change and Business Research Initiative, a joint project with UC Berkeley School of Law that is sponsored by Bank of America.