Senator Dave Cortese Introduces Senate Proposal to Significantly Expand Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging at Multifamily Residences

SACRAMENTO, CA – California State Senator Dave Cortese (D – San Jose), acting as Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, today announced the introduction of his Senate Bill 1215 which would significantly expand EV charging infrastructure at multifamily residences, advancing the state’s clean transportation goals while ensuring more equitable access to charging and helping stabilize electricity costs for ratepayers. 

“As California accelerates toward a clean transportation future, we must make sure no community is left behind,” said Senator Dave Cortese. “More than 80 percent of EV charging happens at home — but roughly one-third of Californians live in multifamily housing, where access to charging remains extremely limited. This bill addresses that inequity head-on.”

According to the California Energy Commission (CEC), approximately 313,000 chargers will be needed at multifamily residences by 2030, with an additional 264,000 required by 2035 to meet projected demand. However, the CEC’s most recent AB 2127 report shows that as of 2023, only about 26,000 Level 1 and Level 2 chargers had been installed statewide at multifamily properties.

Despite the fact that over 80 percent of EV charging occurs at home, less than five percent of EV charging currently takes place in multifamily settings — underscoring a significant infrastructure gap that disproportionately affects renters and lower- and middle-income households. An estimated 6.7 million Californians live in multifamily properties. 

Cortese’s proposal would prioritize the development of EV charging stations at apartments, condominiums, and other multifamily housing developments in high-density and transit-oriented areas. 

“The California State Association of Electrical Workers and the Coalition of California Utility Employees are proud to sponsor SB 1215, legislation that builds on the proven success of previous utility pilot programs to expand essential EV charging infrastructure across California. By drawing on this demonstrated expertise, we can deliver equitable access to EV charging for Californians who live in the multi-family residential sector, an area that has been underserved by commercial EV charging companies,” said John Doherty, Secretary-Treasurer for the CA State Association of Electrical Workers. “In addition, SB 1215 aligns with existing Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) certification requirements to ensure that all EV chargers are installed safely, correctly, and to the highest professional standards.”

“Transportation electrification must work for everyone,” Cortese said. “This legislation ensures that renters, urban residents, and working families have the same opportunity to participate in and benefit from California’s clean energy transition.”

Senator Dave Cortese represents Senate District 15, which encompasses San Jose and much of Santa Clara County in the heart of Silicon Valley. Visit Senator Cortese’s website: https://sd15.senate.ca.gov

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