The City of Alameda has partnered with curbside charging company It’s Electric to install the island’s first building-powered public electric vehicle chargers on Alameda Housing Authority (AHA) property, in a move aimed at expanding access to residents without private parking.
The pilot installation at Everett Commons uses existing electrical capacity from nearby buildings, avoiding the need for costly grid upgrades. Chargers can be deployed in as little as two days and are powered by 100% renewable electricity supplied by Alameda Municipal Power (AMP). Property owners will also share in charging revenues, a model the city said ensures long-term financial sustainability.
“This initiative makes EVs accessible to all while reducing Alameda’s carbon footprint through AMP’s renewable energy,” said Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft.
Vanessa Cooper, executive director of the Alameda Housing Authority, said the project “builds resilient communities by integrating charging infrastructure directly into housing sites,” adding that it supports AHA’s mission of providing affordable housing while helping low-income residents take part in the EV transition.
The chargers feature a detachable cable design, intended to maintain accessibility on sidewalks and meet ADA requirements. Drivers will receive a free, vehicle-compatible cable, which the city said improves safety and usability.
“It’s about equitable EV access that doesn’t require homeownership or a garage,” said Shannon Dulaney, director of public affairs at It’s Electric.
The city said additional installations are under review for other AHA properties as part of its broader climate and equity goals. AMP General Manager Tim Haines said the use of community-owned clean power “ensures broad access to EV benefits regardless of housing type.”