Tritium has partnered with EV charging network operator ChargeNet with a plan to install RTM direct current (DC) fast chargers at South San Francisco Taco Bells. The partnership, which is expected to expand in other areas, leverages funding from the California Energy Commission’s California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP) and the California Public Utilities Commission’s (CPUC) Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP).
The companies broke ground on the installation last month and the chargers are anticipated to be operational by the end of October. The 75kW Tritium RTM fast chargers can provide up to 46 miles of range in 10 minutes and will accept payment through ChargeNet’s mobile app and a credit card reader on the charger, the companies say, adding that ChargeNet’s EV charging platform, specifically designed for fast food franchisees, fills a market need for more fast chargers at locations with food and a restroom. ChargeNet also hopes to integrate food ordering and payment. To lower energy costs and protect from power outages, the installation will utilize solar and energy storage technology to power the chargers and provide more competitive rates to Taco Bell customers.
The installation will not require any further utility service upgrades, only requiring one additional meter to support the chargers. Additionally, as a result of ChargeNet’s unique service model and use of incentives, Diversified Restaurant Group will pay nothing upfront and take home a portion of the revenue generated from the chargers, along with bringing in EV drivers as customers. The SGIP funding includes prioritization of communities living in high fire-threat areas, communities that have experienced two or more utility Public Safety Power Shut-offs (PSPSs), as well as low-income and medically vulnerable customers, while funding from CALeVIP provides incentives for EV infrastructure across the state with additional funding for charging projects located in low-income and disadvantaged communities.
