Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) is launching a new program to make public electric vehicle (EV) charging more affordable for income-qualified residents in Humboldt County. Through a partnership with the nonprofit GRID Alternatives, eligible RCEA customers can receive a 40% discount on charging at RCEA-owned REVNet public EV charging stations.
The program is designed to extend the benefits of CARE and FERA energy discount programs to public EV charging, helping reduce transportation costs for households that rely on public charging access.
“This program helps close an important affordability gap for income-qualified EV drivers,” said Mike Avcollie, Senior Infrastructure Programs Manager at RCEA. “Not everyone has access to home charging, and this effort helps ensure more residents can benefit from the cost savings of driving electric.”
The discounted charging program is available to residential RCEA customers with an account in good standing who are enrolled in CARE, FERA, or another qualifying public assistance program and who own an electric vehicle registered at their service address. Participation is limited, with space for approximately 50 drivers, and discounts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Approved participants will receive discounted EV charging at all RCEA-owned REVNet Level 2 charging stations across Humboldt County using the ChargePoint app or a free ChargePoint card. The discount is available for up to six months, or until program funding is fully allocated.
“With about a quarter of RCEA residential customers enrolled in CARE or FERA, this program supports more equitable access to clean transportation while encouraging use of our locally owned charging network,” Avcollie said.
Eligible customers are encouraged to learn more and apply online at redwoodenergy.org/discount-ev-charging-program/. For questions about eligibility or the application process, customers may contact RCEA’s Transportation team at ev@redwoodenergy.org or call 707-269-1700.
About Redwood Coast Energy Authority
Established in 2003, the Redwood Coast Energy Authority is a local government joint powers agency whose members include the Blue Lake Rancheria, Yurok Tribe, the County of Humboldt, the seven cities within the county, and the Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District. RCEA’s purpose is to develop and implement sustainable energy initiatives that reduce energy demand, increase energy efficiency, and advance the use of clean, efficient, and renewable resources available in the region. For more info, visit redwoodenergy.org.