More electric vehicle charging stations are coming to California after the state approved an initiative to expand charging projects into low-income cities.

The Central Valley has opportunity to secure some of that infrastructure.

The California Public Utilities Commission approved the new projects, which totaled 15 proposals, on Jan. 11.

Approved projects include four PG&E pilots totaling $8 million to be added in PG&E coverage areas.

It’s part of a larger $1 billion investment that will add 5,300 new charging points to the state, representing a commitment to new EV infrastructure and related transportation electrification projects.

Sites for the new builds have yet to be determined.

PG&E will partner with businesses and individuals to advance its initiatives, which include bringing EV access and technology to medium/heavy-duty fleet vehicles, school buses, refrigeration trucks and parking spaces. PG&E will also provide better EV education for homeowners looking to install charging stations in their residence.

The San Joaquin Valley can look forward to one project that targets the region specifically: electrifying refrigeration units and other auxiliary power units of agricultural and long-haul trucks in the San Joaquin Valley by providing a minimum of 15 electrified parking spaces at one parking site.

The proposals were submitted last year by Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas and Electric under Senate Bill 350 and received expedited review.

California approves PG&E proposal for EV access in low-income areas