Expanding access to electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging to people in low- to moderate-income and disadvantaged communities that have borne the brunt of air pollution is critical to improving local air quality. New and used EVs, purchased or leased with the help of local, state, and federal incentives, can also decrease individuals’ commuting costs through lower costs to operate and maintain an EV. The Center for Sustainable Energy will lead a panel discussion with well-respected leaders from community based organizations (CBOs) across California that work directly with disadvantaged communities.  They will share best practices and examples of successful outreach methods that bring their audience in closer to better understand the benefits and funding incentives available.  We will review why and how it is important for program administrators for EV and EV infrastructure programs to develop a deep and lasting relationships with trusted CBOs that understand their community needs and the issues to reduce barriers to EVs and EV charging acceptance.  This informative panel discussion will also cover how CBOs help inform policy and program design through their understanding of their communities’ challenges and concerns.  We hope you will join us for this impactful presentation. 

Speakers

• Lauri Walker (she/her/hers) (Moderator), Center for Sustainable Energy, Senior Manager, Equity
• Flora Barron (She/Hers), Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee, Director of Economic Development
• Christian A. Torres (He/him), Comite Civico del Valle, Special Projects Manager