A driver charges up his electric vehicle at Whole Foods in Fresno. File photo

The state of California has announced millions of dollars in rebates available for public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

The California Energy Commission (CEC) announced this week the launch of a $30 million incentive project to help businesses, nonprofits, public entities and tribes in installing EV charges in disadvantaged and low-income communities in 30 counties across the state.

The Golden State Priority Project, a part of the California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP), is the first state initiative to focus exclusively on high-power fast chargers in underserved communities.

The rebates for the project sites are available in eastern and central California counties, including the counties of Fresno, Kings, Madera and Tulare.

“CALeVIP is designed to deploy charging infrastructure swiftly and equitably to make sure drivers feel confident they can refuel their electric cars, and that need is especially critical in rural and low-income communities,” said CEC Commissioner Patty Monahan. “This new batch of funds will help fill the gap in those areas where we know charging is needed the most to bring the benefits of clean transportation to all Californians.”

The funding comes as the popularity and sales of zero emission vehicles continue to climb in California, accounting for nearly 19% of all new car sales.

Rebates for eligible fast charger equipment may equal up to 50% of the projects total costs or up to $100,000 based on charger capacities.

 For more information on the rebate rates, visit https://calevip.org/incentive-project/golden-state-priority-project .