Somerville On-Street EV Charging FAQ

The City of Somerville is participating in the MassCEC On-Street EV Charging Solutions Program to install charging stations across the city. Below are frequently asked questions regarding the program and process.

What is the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center?

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) is a state economic development agency dedicated to accelerating the growth of the clean energy sector across the Commonwealth to spur job creation, deliver statewide environmental benefits and to secure long-term economic growth for the people of Massachusetts. MassCEC currently funds about 20 programs, including financing for early stage companies and technology development, pilots for the decarbonization of buildings and transportation, and investments in training to build a skilled, diverse clean energy workforce. Learn more at https://www.masscec.com/about.

What is the goal of the On-Street EV Charging Program?

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) On-Street Charging Solutions Program is designed to expand access to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure for residents without dedicated off-street parking, such as those living in multifamily dwellings or relying on curbside parking. Through this MassCEC funded program, Somerville will receive technical support and installation of Level II curbside chargers at roughly three locations. Learn more about the program at https://www.masscec.com/street-charging-solutions.

What does the current EV charging network look like in Somerville?

The City currently manages 24 public charging ports at 12 locations. CLICK HERE to view a map of our city-owned charging stations located across Somerville. However, charging infrastructure in Somerville goes beyond these City-owned locations, and a full map of chargers that are publicly accessible can be found at plugshare.com.

Why does Somerville care about providing public EV chargers?

Somerville's Climate Forward Plan envisions that by 2050, 100% of passenger vehicles are decarbonized. The provision of publicly-accessible EV charging infrastructure helps us to reach that goal more quickly and equitably. By installing public charging infrastructure in places that are near to local businesses, areas of multi-family housing without access to at-home charging, and in districts with Environmental Justice populations, we hope to maximize the impact of these community amenities to residents and small businesses while also accelerating the City towards our 2050 sustainable mobility goals.

How is the City selecting locations for new charging stations?

In 2023, Somerville conducted a city-wide evaluation of our capacity for new EV charging infrastructure as part of our EV Charging Siting Strategy, the results of which are available at https://www.somervillema.gov/electric-vehicles. Preliminary site selections were based on a multifaceted review including:

• High population density and a large percentage of renters
• Limited or no access to private off-street parking
• Proximity to residential hubs, business corridors, and public amenities
• Input from community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, and local stakeholders
• Representation from Environmental Justice Communities
• Accessibility and safety of sidewalks, curb configurations, and traffic patterns
• Availability of nearby utility infrastructure to support charging

These factors were evaluated through site visits, GIS mapping, stakeholder engagement, and coordination with municipal staff and utilities. Recommendations were refined to focus on areas that maximize impact, accessibility, and equity.

What type of costs are covered through the MassCEC funding?

MassCEC funds the project by covering engagement, marketing, site evaluation, engineering services, permitting, equipment procurement, construction, labor, and project management. Ongoing soft costs, such as EV network subscription, maintenance, and warranty are also eligible for coverage under the Program. This removes financial barriers for municipalities interested in expanding charging access.

Will residents pay for installation?

No, there will be no cost associated with installation to the community or its residents.

Can stations be made private to the neighborhood?

No, to comply with the MassCEC On-Street Charging Solution program EV charging locations must be located curb side on a public municipally owned roadway with parking orientations of parallel, 45°, or 90°. Installed EV Chargers must be publicly accessible.

What types of EV chargers will be installed?

Each selected site will be equipped with at least one Level II charger from a vetted vendor. These chargers are approved by MassCEC and the municipality. Existing chargers across Somerville are ChargePoint Level II stations from their CT4000 series.

How long will the project take?

The project began in early Spring 2025 with identification of potential charger locations, with installation beginning in the Fall of 2025. The program will reach completion, including commissioning the new chargers, at the end of 2026.

How long will it take to charge a vehicle?

A Level II charger typically takes between 3 to 8 hours to fully charge and EV depending on the vehicle and charger.

How much will it cost for drivers to use the chargers?

Rates are determined by the municipality, typically on a per-kWh or per-hour basis. As of July 1, 2024, Somerville’s public chargers cost $0.25/kWh of charging provided, with payments managed through the ChargePoint app. This fee helps the City maintain existing stations and expand our charging infrastructure.

Is there funding available for EV acquisition?

This program does not offer funding for purchasing electric vehicles. However, MassCEC and other state/federal agencies provide rebates and incentives for EV purchases. For more info, visit https://mor-ev.org.