PG&E releases tools to support EV fast charge stations in California
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) released a report and interactive map to support the installation of electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers in Central and Northern California.
The new interactive map allows on-the-ground planners and installers to explore potential sites and prioritize the locations they feel are most suitable for DC fast chargers. Over 300 areas are shown on the map for installers to see where electric vehicle charge stations are located. Installers can then use this tool to identify the existing sites in order to determine if the area would benefit more from a high-powered DC fast charging station.
Transportation is considered the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in California. Increasing the number of EVs used across communities by increasing electric vehicle benefits will help the state reach its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The ultimate goal for the state is to support 1 million EVs on the road by 2020. Expanding public charge access and influencing EV adoption by increasing driver confidence are crucial measures that will help the state reach its ultimate goal.
The state has slowed the process of installing direct current (DV) fast chargers due to their relatively high installation cost. There are approximately 5,000 public chargers in Central and Northern California; however, only 280 of the chargers are DC fast chargers. Drivers prefer fast chargers because they can charge a vehicle in 20 to 30 minutes, where a standard EV charger can take several hours.
