Public Charger Deployment Study

Public investment in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure can be pivotal in decarbonizing the transportation sector. However, policymakers lack rigorous evidence on how to design subsidy programs that maximize additional charger deployment per public dollar while addressing other policy priorities, such as equitably expanding access in underserved communities. These areas face additional barriers to developing charging infrastructure, which limit access to public charging, slow EV adoption, and reduce equitable participation in the clean transportation transition. To address this gap, we partner with a large jurisdiction to conduct a randomized controlled trial evaluating an EV charger rebate program. Leveraging rich administrative data, charger usage records, surveys, and EV registration data, the study will provide experimental estimates of demand and welfare impacts of public EV charging subsidies, offering actionable guidance for cost-effective and equitable clean transportation policy.