FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 2, 2023
Contact:
Josh Valentine, Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP), jvalentine@swenergy.org
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[CLARK COUNTY, NV] – Today, the Clark County Commission approved new requirements for builders to plan for including electric vehicle (EV) charging capability in new and renovated buildings. The new requirements, part of the Title 30 Unified Development Code, will promote clean, efficient, and cost-effective electric mobility. They will help save residents money, clean up our air, and protect our climate — aligning with the County’s vision for sustainability and demonstrating its commitment to a greener future.
The updated code represents a significant milestone in Clark County’s sustainability and climate action efforts. By engaging with stakeholders and incorporating their input, the County has developed a comprehensive set of measures that promotes the transition to electric mobility.
“We applaud Clark County’s proactive approach in supporting electric mobility through the integration of updated EV charging requirements,” said Caitlin Gatchalian, the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project’s (SWEEP) Nevada State Representative. “By incorporating dedicated electrical capacity and necessary infrastructure, the County is laying the foundation for a seamless and widespread adoption of electric vehicles.”
The installation of EV infrastructure is one of the key elements of the updated Title 30 Unified Development Code. The requirements mandate the provision of dedicated electrical capacity in parking spaces and the installation of conduit for future EV charging, known as EV-Capable infrastructure.
Jim Meyers, SWEEP’s Buildings Program Director, commended Clark County for its adoption of EV charging requirements, stating, “Clark County’s implementation of EV charging requirements in new buildings aligns with what is happening across the country and is currently in work with nationally developed codes and standards.”
Furthermore, the updated code includes provisions for reserved parking spaces equipped with installed EV charging stations, referred to as EV-Installed infrastructure. These dedicated spaces not only encourage EV adoption but also ensure convenient access to charging infrastructure for EV owners.
The updated code also addresses accessibility by incorporating requirements for ADA-compliant EV charging stations in multi-family and nonresidential developments. By mandating inclusive infrastructure, Clark County aims to provide equal access to EV charging for individuals with disabilities.
To better regulate the use of EV charging stations, the updated code introduced signage requirements for EV-Installed infrastructure. Clear and visible signage helps prevent unauthorized use of the charging stations, ensuring their availability for EV owners when needed.
Clark County’s EV Charging Requirements by Land Use Table provides developers with guidelines for the number of EV-capable and EV-installed charging spaces required for different types of developments. These requirements, while serving as a minimum, provide flexibility and establish a baseline for developers to meet the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure.
Clark County’s updated Title 30 Unified Development Code sets an example for other communities seeking to support sustainable transportation and the adoption of EVs. By aligning infrastructure and development codes with the needs of EV owners, the County is taking an important step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
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The Southwest Energy Efficiency Project (SWEEP) is a public interest organization promoting greater energy efficiency and clean transportation in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. swenergy.org