Press

Ava Community Energy has launched its first electric vehicle (EV) fast charging station in downtown Oakland. The first in a network of up to fifteen fast charging stations planned by Ava, their goal is offering greater convenience for current users and beginning to break down barriers to EV adoption.

Ava partnered with Bike East Bay to host this free event, where community members could connect with local bike shops and instructors to test-ride various e-bike models. Many attendees had received Ava Bike Electric rebates, and shared that test-riding the bikes helped them decide what to buy.

October marked six months of service in Stockton and Lathrop, saving customers more than $4.4 million on their energy bills so far. “These savings show how our public agency creates immediate value for customers while building the foundation for a cleaner energy future,” said Howard Chang.

E-bikes have already become ubiquitous in Berkeley, and their popularity keeps rising. Local bike shops say Ava Bike Electric has been much more effective at driving sales than a previous state-run program.

The East Bay Times covered the launch of Ava Bike Electric and our goal of reducing transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging more people to use e-bikes instead of cars.

The Tri-City Voice spotlighted Ava Bike Electric for its readers in Fremont, Newark and Union City, and the surrounding cities.

Livermore City Council voted to partner with Ava on a 25-year power purchase agreement that will bring solar panels and battery storage to two city facilities. The project will expand Livermore’s renewable energy portfolio, provide backup power during outages, and reduce reliance on diesel generators.

Ava customers in Stockton, Tracy, and Lathrop can apply for Ava Bike Electric rebates, redeemable at local bike shops like Tracy Cyclery or Robby’s Bicycles.

Alameda County residents are eligible to apply for Ava Bike Electric rebates. Berkeleyside interviewed local bike shop owners like Stay True Cycles co-owner Nick Hoeper-Tomich about how the program could impact business and lifestyles.