San Francisco advances EV charging ordinance to support climate goals
March 22, 2022 | San Francisco City, San Francisco County, California
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San Francisco is taking a significant step towards a greener future with the approval of a new ordinance aimed at expanding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. During a recent city council meeting, the board unanimously supported legislation that will streamline the permitting process for public EV charging stations, addressing a critical need in a city where 70% of residents live in multifamily dwellings without access to home charging.
The ordinance, sponsored by Mayor London Breed and presented by her environmental policy advisor, Sarah Owens, seeks to modernize the city’s planning code. Currently, developers face delays because existing regulations are tailored for gas stations, making it more challenging to establish EV charging locations. The new legislation will allow existing automotive sites, such as gas stations and parking lots, to convert to EV charging stations by right, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Owens highlighted the urgency of this initiative, noting that the transportation sector is a major contributor to San Francisco's greenhouse gas emissions. With nearly all major car manufacturers committing to electric lineups by 2030, the city must prepare for a surge in EV adoption. The ordinance aims to ensure that residents have access to a robust public charging network, which is essential for transitioning away from fossil fuel dependency.
The city currently has 1,016 public chargers but needs an additional 488 Level 2 chargers and 246 fast chargers to meet projected demand by 2030. The legislation not only facilitates the installation of these chargers but also outlines clear pathways for developers, ensuring that the infrastructure can keep pace with the growing number of electric vehicles.
The board's decision reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and climate action, with the legislation expected to take effect 30 days after the mayor's signature. As San Francisco moves forward with this initiative, it sets a precedent for other urban areas grappling with similar challenges in EV infrastructure development. The city is poised to enhance its public charging network, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future.
The ordinance, sponsored by Mayor London Breed and presented by her environmental policy advisor, Sarah Owens, seeks to modernize the city’s planning code. Currently, developers face delays because existing regulations are tailored for gas stations, making it more challenging to establish EV charging locations. The new legislation will allow existing automotive sites, such as gas stations and parking lots, to convert to EV charging stations by right, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Owens highlighted the urgency of this initiative, noting that the transportation sector is a major contributor to San Francisco's greenhouse gas emissions. With nearly all major car manufacturers committing to electric lineups by 2030, the city must prepare for a surge in EV adoption. The ordinance aims to ensure that residents have access to a robust public charging network, which is essential for transitioning away from fossil fuel dependency.
The city currently has 1,016 public chargers but needs an additional 488 Level 2 chargers and 246 fast chargers to meet projected demand by 2030. The legislation not only facilitates the installation of these chargers but also outlines clear pathways for developers, ensuring that the infrastructure can keep pace with the growing number of electric vehicles.
The board's decision reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and climate action, with the legislation expected to take effect 30 days after the mayor's signature. As San Francisco moves forward with this initiative, it sets a precedent for other urban areas grappling with similar challenges in EV infrastructure development. The city is poised to enhance its public charging network, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future.
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