National briefs: California to invest in friendly future for electric vehicles

Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — California utilities will invest $768 million to expand a network of charging stations and other infrastructure for electric vehicles as the state moves toward a goal of five million zero-emission cars on the roads by 2030.

The California Public Utilities Commission voted 5-0 Thursday to pay for programs statewide over the next five years, with an emphasis on establishing facilities in disadvantaged communities where traffic and air pollution are often heaviest. The funding includes $136 million by San Diego Gas & Electric Co. to provide rebates for as many as 60,000 customers to install home charging stations.

Pacific Gas and Electric will build 230 direct current fast-charging stations, for a total of nearly $22.5 million. And Southern California Edison will outlay $343 million for the electrification of almost 8,500 medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.

“If we’re successful with this and other electrification efforts already underway, much of the nation will likely follow California’s lead, and together we will make a difference in the fight against climate change,” said CPUC Commissioner Carla J. Peterman.

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