County Powers Up Support for EV Charging and Energy Conservation Projects

Fairfax County residents could soon see new opportunities for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations closer to home and the places where they spend their free time, thanks to the expansion of the Charge Up Fairfax program.

Charge Up Fairfax launched in 2023 to help homeowner and condominium associations install shared EV charging stations in common areas. Newly adopted guidelines increase program eligibility to nonprofit organizations and places of worship. Through technical guidance and financial assistance, Charge Up Fairfax can help these groups take a first step toward expanding EV charging infrastructure throughout the county.

Charge Up Fairfax Benefits

Organizations accepted for the program can receive technical assistance and grant funding in EV installation. The program’s benefits include:

• Financial Assistance. Increased reimbursement grant amounts help reduce the cost of installing Level 2 EV chargers, making projects more affordable for communities and organizations.
• Technical Support. Access to county-funded site visits and assessments by professional engineers ensures organizations get expert guidance on feasibility, planning, and installation.
• Customized Options. Participants can choose from flexible options, including a grant-only model, a full-service program, or coordination with Dominion Energy’s Level 2 EV Charging Program, tailored to meet diverse needs.
• Attractive Amenities. EV charging stations enhance home and neighborhood features, providing upgrades that make living spaces more appealing to EV owners.
• Cleaner Air. EV chargers support the transition to electric vehicles, which have zero tailpipe emissions, improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the community.

Additionally, the program supports the county’s strategic goal to improve the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the numbers of electric vehicles registered in the county.  Charge Up Fairfax also supports the county’s equity policy by providing additional levels of funding to organizations in high or very high vulnerability areas with increased levels of grant funding. 

Growing Success of Charge Up Fairfax

Since its inception, 16 communities have participated in Charge Up Fairfax, with five successfully completing EV charging station installations.

The Charge Up Fairfax program is tailored to meet the diverse needs of organizations. Participants can choose between a grant-only option, a full-service program, or a combined effort with Dominion Energy’s Level 2 EV Charging Program.

Organizations accepted into the program will receive a site visit and assessment from an engineering firm, funded by Fairfax County. If the organization proceeds with the project, they hire a contractor for necessary permitting, electrical upgrades, equipment installation and final inspection.

Energy Conservation Assistance Program Reaches $1 Million Milestone

Charge Up Fairfax is just one part of the county’s larger commitment to sustainability. The county’s Energy Conservation Assistance Program is also delivering results:

• More than $1 million has been invested in community energy efficiency upgrades.
• The county’s reimbursement grants covered approximately 20% of these investments.
• About 22% of projects are in high or very high vulnerability areas, advancing the county’s equity goals.
• Ten new projects have been approved for FY 2025, with upgrades including insulation, LED lighting, heat pump installations and smart thermostats.

Energy Conservation Assistance Program helps common-interest organizations, such nonprofits and places of worship, cover the costs of energy-saving upgrades, renewable energy installations and improvements to make buildings and properties more environmentally resilient. The program provides financial support and expert guidance to property owners for these projects.

How to Apply

Eligible organizations are encouraged to apply for Charge Up Fairfax and the Energy Conservation Assistance Program at any time. Applications for both are accepted on a rolling basis.

Energy Conservation Assistance projects must be approved prior to being completed or purchased to be eligible for reimbursement. 

Learn more about the programs and eligibility requirements, and apply at Charge Up Fairfax or Energy Conservation Assistance Program, or email oeecinfo@fairfaxcounty.gov.