On Aug. 14, 2024, the City of Ann Arbor launched the new Commercial Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Program, an initiative to encourage electric vehicle adoption throughout the city by increasing the availability of publicly accessible EV chargers. The Commercial EV Charger Program provides an opportunity for commercial and multifamily property owners to receive up to four free level-2 EV chargers. This grant award also includes a five-year software package, a five-year warranty and, as needed, charger accessories essential to ensuring the functionality of the EV chargers.
Applications are now being accepted on a rolling basis for this new Commercial EV Charger Program until funding is exhausted. Applicants for the program must meet the program eligibility requirements to be considered, and grant recipients will be selected based on criteria including the geographical location of charger placement and expected usage of the EV chargers. Additionally, grant recipients will need to follow the grant terms and conditions, which include, among others, limitations on the cost of charging as well as a requirement that the chargers be fully accessible to the public.
“When residents know they can find a place to charge an electric vehicle near their home, place of businesses or in key community locations, they can more confidently decide if they are ready to make the transition to an electric vehicle,” said Dr. Missy Stults, City of Ann Arbor sustainability and innovations director.
By adding a valuable amenity to their property, commercial and multifamily property managers who participate can expect to benefit from increased tenant, customer and employee satisfaction while remaining competitive in an evolving market. Those who are interested in the program are encouraged to visit the city’s Commercial EV Charger Program webpage to learn more about the program and its requirements and view the program application.
Electric vehicles produce significantly less greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than their fossil-fueled counterparts and have lower operational costs. According to the U.S Department of Energy, an electric vehicle fueled by the grid in Michigan produces over 70% less GHG emissions than a gas-fueled vehicle. An EV fueled solely by renewable sources, such as on site solar, produces no GHG emissions.
The Commercial EV Charger Program is part of the City of Ann Arbor A2ZERO plan, which strives toward one unifying vision: Together, creating and implementing a just transition to carbon neutrality, community-wide, by the year 2030. Learn more at www.a2gov.org/sustainability.
