This is a competitive grant solicitation. The Clean Transportation Program (formerly known as the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program) announces the availability of up to $2 million in grant funds to increase the capacity and throughput of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) standards testing at a laboratory. This funding may support expansion of testing of both light-duty and medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment.
The Vehicle-Grid Innovation Lab(s) (ViGIL) will provide a timely and cost-effective avenue for stakeholders to validate and test their products for conformance to established standards. ViGIL will also promote innovation and the development and commercialization of advanced products to address current, and future, market needs. Testing at funded laboratories is voluntary and is not mandatory for entities to do business in California.
ViGIL may be complemented by work performed by the awardee of a CEC Vehicle Inter-Operability Testing Symposiums (VOLTS) Request for Proposals (RFP). Refer to CEC Docket 19-TRAN-02 for more information on staff proposals.
ViGIL will support four key policy objectives for electric vehicle charging equipment:
- Interoperability – Standardized devices that are capable of functioning as intended with each other, without special effort from the user.
- Competition and Customer Choice – Standardized, open charging systems that ensure easy access by all in a competitive and highly integrated market.
- Cost Control – Assist grid and renewables management and reduce fuel costs for drivers who charge in a manner consistent with grid conditions.
- Convenience – Ensure that the employed technologies work in a harmonious manner and across service territories.
Applicants may only submit one application under this solicitation.