This is part of a collection of case studies that focus on creative charging solutions for EV drivers in multifamily housing. For more information and the full collection, visit our Charging Solutions for EV Drivers in Multifamily Housing hub.
Challenge
Historically underserved communities, including Black, Brown, and rural communities, can face additional barriers to access to electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. Prospective EV drivers often cite the lack of access to charging as a primary concern. How can historically underserved communities access and benefit from EV charging?
Objectives and solutions
Through their creative Communities in Charge program, Dunamis Charge connects community organizations such as churches and nonprofits with public EV charging stations for free. The program works to bring charging access and affordability to economically disadvantaged communities while empowering community churches and organizations to operate as charging hosts. In partnership with DTE Energy, Communities in Charge deploys public Level 2 charging in locations where residents often lack access to charging and have less exposure to EVs. The chargers are available to area residents 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can serve as a source of revenue for churches and nonprofits. The chargers are situated in high-traffic areas for people to know they can charge when needed.
DTE Energy offers rebates through Communities in Charge for charger costs, necessary infrastructure upgrades, and installation. The program now has about 40 sites (each with multiple charging ports, for a rough estimate of at least 80 chargers) online. The churches and nonprofits, mainly located in Detroit, MI, receive training and marketing materials through the program. Dunamis Charge also partnered with ChargerHelp to maintain the chargers.
Each site host determines the cost of each charging session for EV drivers. Some hosts charge drivers for each session, others provide free charging, and some discount the cost of charging for drivers who use their stations. What’s been key is the process of working in partnership with each community host to knowledge-share and understand what information they need.
Elements for Success
- The utility partnership with DTE Energy enabled Communities in Charge through a $1.5 million investment that provides rebates to cover costs for the program’s community hosts within DTE’s service territory. This capital investment not only provides access to charging in communities but also raises awareness in the community about EV technology more broadly to further encourage EV adoption.
- Communities in Charge relies on diligent, comprehensive outreach led by messengers from within the community. Leaning on their team’s strong ties to the faith community, Dunamis Charge generated interest in the program by calling each church in the area. This demonstrates the need for considerate and comprehensive outreach from trusted sources.
References
- Home EV Charger Rebate | DTE Energy
- The EV charging company that runs on faith – E&E News by POLITICO
- Dunamis Charge
Recap:
Average charging cost: $1.50 per hour
Charging type: Public
Problem addressed: Access, Equipment
Solution type: Community
