Charge Ahead Colorado – CEO from Colorado Energy Office – CEO

The Charge Ahead Colorado program, administered by the Colorado Energy Office (CEO), is a comprehensive initiative designed to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the state. This program offers various incentives for different types of EV chargers, aiming to make electric vehicle charging more accessible and convenient throughout Colorado.

Current Status and Timeline

As of September 16, 2024, the program is open for applications. The current application period is scheduled as follows:

Event	Date
Application Start Date	September 16, 2024
Application End Date	October 18, 2024

It’s important to note that application periods typically occur three times a year, in January, May, and October.

Funding Details

The Charge Ahead Colorado program offers various rebate options based on charger type and power output. Here’s a breakdown of the available rebates:

Charger Type	Power Output	Maximum Rebate	Percentage of Project Cost
Level 2	<19kW	$4,500 per Port	80%
Level 2	19-49.9kW	$6,250 per Port	80%
DCFC (Single Port)	50-99kW	$35,000 per Station	80%
DCFC (Dual Port)	50-99kW	$50,000 per Station	80%
DCFC (Single Port)	≥100kW	$50,000 per Station	80%
DCFC (Double Port)	≥100kW	$70,000 per Station	80%

Income Qualified (IQ) Enhanced Incentives

The program offers enhanced incentives for income-qualified applicants:

Charger Type	Power Output	Maximum Rebate	Percentage of Project Cost
Level 2 (IQ)	<19kW	$5,750 per Port	90%
Level 2 (IQ)	19-49.9kW	$7,500 per Port	90%

Eligibility and Requirements

• The maximum award per applicant during a single standard application round is likely to be $250,000.
• Proprietary chargers are not eligible for funding.
• DCFC chargers must meet minimum power output requirements (50kW+ or 100kW+ depending on the category).
• For Income Qualified (IQ) enhanced incentives, applicants can qualify through established programs such as:
  • Housing Choice (Section 8) Vouchers
  • Low Income Public Housing
  • HUD Subsidized Project Based Section 8
  • Low Income Housing Tax Credit
  • Multifamily Housing (MFH) operated by a Housing Authority

Bonus Program

An additional $500 per port may be available for qualified entities in disproportionately impacted communities. Eligible entities include:

• Libraries
• Community centers
• Recreation centers
• Nonprofit organizations
• Schools
• Public entities installing charging for specific public use
• Places of worship
• Multifamily housing (MFH) IQ eligible organizations

Additional Program Notes

• While the program does not have an official Qualified Product List (QPL), it maintains a list of vendors that have completed training. This list can be found here.
• Incentives from other programs can be used towards the “cost share” requirement. However, other state charging infrastructure grant funding is not eligible.

Application Process

While specific details of the application process are not provided in the given information, potential applicants should prepare to demonstrate how their proposed projects meet all the stated requirements. This likely includes:

• Detailed plans for charger installations
• Location specifics
• Project budget and funding breakdown
• For IQ applicants, documentation proving eligibility
• For bonus program applicants, evidence of location in disproportionately impacted communities

Importance of the Program

The Charge Ahead Colorado program plays a crucial role in expanding EV charging infrastructure across the state. By offering substantial incentives for various types of chargers, the program aims to:

• Reduce range anxiety for EV drivers
• Encourage more Coloradans to consider electric vehicles
• Support the state’s efforts to reduce transportation-related emissions
• Ensure equitable access to EV charging, particularly in underserved and low-income communities
• Boost local economies by attracting EV drivers to various communities across Colorado

The Charge Ahead Colorado program represents a significant opportunity for businesses, organizations, and eligible individuals to contribute to Colorado’s EV infrastructure. With its focus on various charger types and power outputs, as well as its emphasis on serving diverse communities, this program is set to play a crucial role in Colorado’s sustainable transportation future. Interested parties are encouraged to review the detailed requirements, consult the official program documentation, and prepare comprehensive applications to participate in this transformative initiative.