What's Happening?
PowerFlex, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Internal Services Department and the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA), has installed 20 Level 2 electric vehicle charging ports at the LACDA Carmelitos
community in Long Beach, CA. This installation is part of a larger initiative by Los Angeles County to deploy 15,000 EV chargers on its properties by 2035. Ten of the new charging ports are accessible to the public, while the remaining ten are designated for LACDA fleet operations. The project underscores the county's commitment to sustainable infrastructure in underserved communities.
Why It's Important?
The installation of new EV charging ports in Long Beach is a significant step towards improving air quality in a region known for its pollution challenges. By increasing access to EV charging infrastructure, the initiative supports California's broader decarbonization strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on coal-powered electricity and promote clean energy sources. This move is expected to benefit public health by reducing emissions and supporting the transition to electric vehicles, which do not directly generate toxic air emissions.
What's Next?
Los Angeles County plans to continue expanding its EV charging infrastructure, with a goal of installing 15,000 chargers by 2035. This expansion is likely to involve further collaborations with companies like PowerFlex and other stakeholders committed to sustainable energy solutions. The county's efforts may also influence other regions to adopt similar strategies, contributing to statewide and national goals for clean energy and reduced emissions.
Beyond the Headlines
The focus on social equity in the deployment of EV charging infrastructure highlights the importance of addressing environmental justice issues. By prioritizing historically underserved communities, Los Angeles County is setting a precedent for inclusive and equitable access to sustainable technologies, which could have long-term cultural and societal impacts.
