Accelerating Clean Mobility in California EV Charging Infrastructure Tips by Jody Benson Sharp

Los Angeles, United States – As California advances toward its ambitious clean-energy transportation goals, the state’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure must expand rapidly to accommodate millions of current and future EV drivers. Sustainability advisor Jody Benson Sharp continues to provide vital guidance on how cities, developers, businesses, and communities can strengthen charging accessibility and reliability across the state.

California’s EV movement is not just about replacing gasoline cars—it is about building a smarter, greener, and more resilient transportation network. Sharp’s insights highlight the core strategies that support long-term stability, user convenience, and environmental impact.

California’s Driving Force Behind EV Infrastructure Growth

California’s transportation emissions remain among the highest in the country, making electrification a critical step in reducing pollution, protecting public health, and combating climate change. The state’s strong incentives, environmental regulations, and surging EV sales have accelerated demand for charging solutions across highways, neighborhoods, workplaces, and commercial centers.

However, the speed of EV adoption has created new challenges: charging shortages, grid strain, regional accessibility gaps, and the need for affordable home charging options. Jody Benson Sharp stresses that California’s success depends on forward-thinking infrastructure planning that evolves as rapidly as consumer behavior.

Tip 1: Build Charging Networks Around Real-World User Behavior

A strong EV ecosystem begins with understanding how people actually use electric vehicles. Sharp advises mapping infrastructure plans around daily activities:

• Grocery shopping
• Work commutes
• School drop-offs
• Weekend travel
• Errands and appointments
• Fitness and recreation visits
• Long-distance highway trips

Charging stations that align with these routines are more likely to be used frequently and efficiently.

Tip 2: Prioritize High-Traffic, Multi-Purpose Locations

California’s infrastructure should maximize convenience and visibility. Strategic locations include:

• Retail plazas
• Public libraries
• Entertainment districts
• Sports stadiums
• Hospitals and clinics
• Municipal parking structures
• Coastal and tourism zones

Placing stations where people naturally gather helps reduce range anxiety and encourages EV adoption among new drivers.

Tip 3: Expand Charging in Multi-Family Housing and Urban Centers

Many Californians live in apartments, townhomes, and high-density urban communities where home EV charging is not always possible. Sharp emphasizes that expanding charging in these areas is essential for equity and accessibility. Solutions include:

• Shared Level 2 charging for residents
• Smart charging management for apartment buildings
• Reserved EV parking for tenants
• Affordable installation incentives

This ensures that EV adoption is not limited to homeowners with garages.

Tip 4: Use Smart Charging Systems to Reduce Grid Impact

California’s grid faces growing pressure as more vehicles switch to electric power. Jody Benson Sharp recommends smart charging systems that:

• Balance charging loads
• Prevent overloading during peak hours
• Shift usage to low-cost times
• Communicate with grid operators
• Provide real-time performance data

Smart systems help maintain grid stability while reducing costs for both station owners and drivers.

Tip 5: Ensure Fast Chargers Along Highways and Rural Routes

To support long-distance travel and statewide accessibility, Sharp stresses the importance of DC fast chargers along:

• Interstate highways
• Scenic travel routes
• Desert and mountain regions
• Rural towns
• Agricultural corridors

These locations often struggle with limited infrastructure but are crucial for connecting communities and enabling efficient statewide EV travel.

Tip 6: Integrate Renewable Energy for Sustainable Charging

Solar energy plays a key role in powering California’s charging stations. Sharp highlights that solar-powered chargers:

• Reduce reliance on the grid
• Lower operational costs
• Improve environmental performance
• Provide clean energy even during outages
• Support microgrid resiliency

Buildings, parking lots, and public facilities equipped with solar canopies can significantly strengthen local charging ecosystems.

Tip 7: Focus on Safety, Comfort, and Accessibility

The success of a charging station depends on how comfortable and safe users feel. Sharp suggests the following design priorities:

• ADA-compliant access
• Good lighting
• Clear instructions and signage
• Weather protection
• Emergency assistance features
• Safe pedestrian routes

Stations that are easy to navigate encourage more drivers to choose electric vehicles confidently.

Tip 8: Invest in Long-Term Scalability

California’s charging needs will continue to grow as more electric cars, SUVs, trucks, and buses hit the road. Infrastructure must be built with the future in mind. Sharp recommends:

• Oversized conduits
• Expandable electrical panels
• Extra parking space for future chargers
• Modular hardware
• Infrastructure that supports bi-directional charging
• Space for battery storage systems

Planning ahead reduces upgrade costs and ensures infrastructure does not become outdated quickly.

Tip 9: Strengthen Fleet Electrification Through Purpose-Built Solutions

Commercial fleets—from delivery vans to rideshare vehicles—represent a major opportunity for emissions reduction. Sharp highlights key components of fleet charging:

• Dedicated fast-charging lanes
• Overnight depot charging
• Fleet-specific management software
• Predictive maintenance tools
• On-site solar and battery storage
• Smart dispatch scheduling

Fleet electrification reduces operating costs while delivering clean-air benefits to surrounding communities.

Tip 10: Expand Community Education and Awareness Programs

To support long-term EV adoption, Sharp encourages cities and organizations to launch educational campaigns that teach residents:

• How EV charging works
• How to install home chargers
• Charging etiquette at public locations
• Benefits of smart charging
• Available rebates and incentives

Public awareness builds confidence and accelerates adoption across all regions of the state.

Conclusion

California’s clean transportation future depends on a robust, accessible, and forward-thinking EV charging infrastructure. With insights from sustainability advocates like Jody Benson Sharp, the state can continue building a resilient charging network that supports millions of drivers while advancing climate action goals.

From smart-charging innovations to renewable-powered stations and community education, California has the tools to create a world-class electric mobility ecosystem—one that protects the environment, strengthens communities, and inspires the rest of the nation.