Have you been thinking about installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers at your multifamily housing (MFH) complex but aren’t sure where to start? There’s a program designed just for you.

The EV Charging Cohort, created by the Climate Action Collaborative in partnership with CLEER and other regional partners, is here to guide you through every step of funding and installing EV charging stations, from start to finish. This free program walks participants through the process of applying for grants, selecting vendors, and navigating permitting, making what can seem like an overwhelming project as easy as possible.

At the heart of the Cohort is the Charge Ahead Colorado grant, which offers up to $250,000 for six Level 2 charging ports. Participants also receive support in identifying additional funding opportunities from local, utility, or state sources. With one-on-one access to a Recharge Coach and other experts, you’ll have tailored assistance to make your project successful.

And the benefits don’t stop at funding. Installing EV charging stations at your complex not only adds a valuable amenity for residents and guests. It can also boost your property’s appeal and value. Plus, EV chargers are tax-exempt until 2030 and help support Eagle County’s climate goals for a greener, more resilient future.

Transitioning from fossil fuels to electric energy is one of the most impactful ways we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions locally. These steps are essential for reaching Eagle County’s Climate Action Plan goals: a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030 and 80% by 2050. The state’s goal is even bolder- 100% reduction by 2050.

Transportation is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the county (after buildings). Since 2014, transportation emissions have increased by 55%, driven in part by our thriving tourism economy. While visitors play a role, it’s the people who live here who can lead the change.

Despite the end of federal incentives for EV’s, Colorado recently introduced an increase in state rebates that will begin November 3rd. This means that Vehicle Exchange Colorado (VXC) rebates will increase from $6,000 to $9,000 for new EV purchases and leases, and $4,000 to $6,000 for used EV purchases and leases.

With this increase in incentives, we expect there will continue to be an increase in EV purchases in Colorado. With more residents adopting EVs and taking advantage of incentives, the biggest remaining challenge is access to convenient charging infrastructure, especially for those living in multifamily housing rather than single-family homes.

As of 2023, Eagle County has 190 Level 2 chargers and 36 Level 3 chargers, but with a goal of 13,542 registered EVs by 2030, we’ll need about 1,045 additional charging ports to keep up. To put this into perspective, we are currently 17.78% to our infrastructure goal. The EV Charging Cohort helps bridge that gap, empowering property owners and residents to take part in building the infrastructure we need.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to be a property manager or HOA board member to join. Anyone with the motivation to get chargers installed can participate.

And if you're still not sold, take it from a past cohort participant: 

“Thank you for all your help and support. Compared to all the pains and sufferings I had to go through for Blue River Apartments in Silverthorne two years ago, you made my life so much easier this year with Lake Creek Village Apartments in Edwards.  So, in all honesty, we probably wouldn’t have done it this year if I hadn’t received the support and guidance from you.” -Anonymous

The next EV Charging Cohort begins this November, and space is limited. If your complex could benefit from this program, fill out the short intake form (available in English and Spanish), and a project leader will contact you soon.

Questions? Reach out to Chantel Recksiedler at chantelr@walkingmountains.org or Dova Castaneda Zilly at dcastanedazilly@cleanenergyeconomy.net.

Chantel Recksiedler is the Climate Action Collaborative Coordinator. The Climate Action Collaborative is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Eagle County 50% by 2030 and 80% by 2050.