In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the need for amendments to the energy code regarding electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in multifamily and commercial construction. Currently, the energy code, effective from January 1, 2023, exempts 100% affordable developments from these requirements, a point of contention among officials who argue that low-income residents also require access to charging facilities at home.

The conversation highlighted that while Bill 126 specifies charging requirements for public accommodations and parking lots, it does not extend to multi-tenant residential developments. This exclusion is significant, as such developments typically do not allow public parking, which complicates the enforcement of existing regulations.

Officials expressed concern that the current framework fails to address the needs of residents in affordable housing, emphasizing that these individuals would benefit greatly from having charging options available. Suggestions were made to reconsider the separation of public and employee parking in enforcement practices, advocating for a more inclusive approach that would require multifamily developments to provide charging infrastructure.

The meeting underscored the importance of adapting local regulations to ensure that all residents, regardless of income, have access to essential EV charging facilities, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for sustainable energy solutions in housing policies.