Charging Network Expands as EV Adoption Grows
California is racing ahead in its electric vehicle revolution, adding 26,000 new chargers in just six months. With a 17.1% increase in public and shared private chargers, the state is preparing for a future where 35% of all new cars sold must be zero-emission by 2026, reaching 100% by 2035. But with millions of EVs expected on the road, the question remains—is the infrastructure keeping up?
Where Are the Chargers Being Installed?
The rollout has been uneven across the state. San Francisco saw a 22% increase, adding about 600 chargers to reach a total of 3,400. Lake County led the way with a 117% increase, going from 50 to 107 chargers. However, some areas, like Del Norte County, saw declines, with charger numbers dropping 26.5%. Officials suggest reclassification and decommissioning may explain these losses.
Public vs. Private Chargers – Who Benefits?
Of the 178,500 chargers now available, 52% are shared private chargers, often found in apartments or workplaces. While public chargers are open to all, access to reliable, convenient charging remains a challenge for those without a home charging option. Experts stress the need for charging stations along highways, curbside in cities, and at key public locations to ensure fair access for all EV drivers.
The Cost and Challenge of Expansion
California estimates it will need 1 million chargers by 2030 to support 7 million EVs—nearly 10 times the current number. That means building 129,000 chargers per year. The cost is a major hurdle, especially for fast chargers, which can cost up to $117,000 per unit. Some worry lack of federal funding could slow down expansion efforts.
EV Owners Weigh In
Drivers on Reddit and other platforms have mixed reactions. Many appreciate new chargers at grocery stores, shopping centers, and gyms, making charging more convenient. However, others struggle with unreliable stations, confusing payment systems, and non-EV cars taking charging spots.
The Bottom Line
Expanding the charging network is crucial for EV adoption and California’s climate goals. But to truly make EVs accessible, the focus must shift to strategic placement, reliability, and affordability.
