The Costs and Challenges of Installing Corridor DC Fast Chargers in California
2/13/2023
This study investigates the feasibility and cost considerations associated with establishing a national network of direct current (DC) fast charging infrastructure to support long-distance travel using electric vehicles (EVs). Specifically, it focuses on the optimal placement of these charging facilities along major transportation corridors in California, aiming to ensure convenient access for EV drivers without significant deviations from their planned routes. The study delves into the diverse project costs involved in installing and commissioning 54 DC fast charging stations at 36 distinct sites, highlighting significant cost variations influenced by various factors. Additionally, the research explores the unique challenges and complexities of infrastructure investments in remote, underserved communities adjacent to highways, as opposed to more conventional urban settings with shared utility infrastructure. It also examines the potential cost reduction strategies, such as early collaboration with local electrical utilities and the cost-effectiveness of grid-connected DC fast charging designs compared to off-grid solar-powered alternatives with onsite storage.
Authors: Gamage, T; Tal, G; Jenn, A