CALSTART Program Aims to Supercharge EV Uptake by Accelerating Workplace EV Charging

The Charge@Work program, recently introduced in the United States, is set to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) sector by promoting EV infrastructure in workplaces. By focusing on workplaces as pivotal points for EV adoption, the program aims to facilitate planning, construction, and implementation of indispensable EV infrastructure for employees nationwide. Renowned organizations such as IKEA, Siemens, Prologis, The Ohio State University, and Michigan State University have acknowledged the urgency of workplace EV charging and are actively enhancing their charging infrastructures. This collective momentum signals a promising shift towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.

“EV sales in the U.S. are breaking records in 2023, but zero-emission vehicles still represent less than 10% of the overall car sales market,” said Jason Zimbler, Light-Duty Vehicle Director at transportation accelerator CALSTART. “Workplaces have the power to supply EV charging to workers who lack home charging and to ensure that all workers — even those with long commutes — can make it to and from work in an EV without worry.”

“At Siemens, we have set a goal to electrify our fleet of 10,000 vehicles by 2030, which will require the EV charging infrastructure in place to support them where our drivers work and live,” said Matt Helgeson, Head of Sustainability, Siemens USA. “We’re proud to be installing Siemens chargers at both our facilities and employees’ homes across the United States and joining the Charge@Work program is one of the many ways we are investing in our workforce, encouraging the EV transition, and supporting a cleaner future for all.”

“As a global leader in logistics real estate, Prologis aims to achieve net-zero emissions in our operations by 2030, and across our value chain by 2040. Workplace charging is a priority for us as part of our commitment to creating a sustainable, supportive, and attractive environment for our team and customers’ employees,” said Henrik Holland, Global Head of Mobility for Prologis.

Workplace EV charging is moving forward thanks to Siemens and Prologis

Siemens and Prologis, prominent players in their respective sectors, have visibly declared their commitment to enhancing workplace charging infrastructure, as part of their participation in the Charge@Work program. A notable new feature of the program is the ‘Charge@Work Project Builder’, a free tool accessible to anyone keen on developing a workplace charging program. This digital tool guides users through the process of creating a workplace charging program, assisting with critical decisions such as determining the number of plugs required, selecting suitable technology, and estimating overall costs.

On top of this, the Department of Energy-supported program provides a multitude of additional services, including free site assessments conducted by workplace charging experts, identification of applicable federal and local incentives, creation of a comprehensive site plan, and determination of the most effective technologies for individual workplaces. It also supports in gauging employee interest in EVs and formulating a plug-share plan for workers, ensuring a smooth transition towards a more eco-friendly commuting future.

“We like to call ourselves your workplace charging concierge — because we and our partners can help support your workplace charging project from idea to implementation,” said Zimbler.

For a comprehensive list of companies, municipalities, and public officials that are actively backing Charge@Work’s pledge to boost the adoption of workplace charging, EVinfo.net invites you to visit the official Charge@Work website. Not only can you explore the pledge’s broad support base, but you can also join this sustainable initiative by taking the pledge yourself! Together, we can accelerate the transition to cleaner, greener commuting solutions.