SPI Insights

The city of Houston issued a request for information (RFI) to collect input on business models and potential partnership opportunities as it seeks to modernize and expand its electric vehicle (EV) efforts.

Houston is gathering information on owning, operating, and managing publicly and privately accessible Electric Vehicle Support Equipment (EVSE).

Prior to developing its long-range plan for electric vehicle charging, the city became part of Project Get Ready, an EV initiative for cities, acquired funding for EVs and EV charging infrastructure, and joined the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group.

Houston officials intend to use the information gathered in the RFI to refine the city’s requirements, technical specifications, and anticipated budget for a future request for proposals (RFP) to deliver a comprehensive plan for owning, operating, and managing EVSE in the city.

The city is looking to replace or add to existing infrastructure for a total of approximately 40 private charging stations. According to a 2019 study by the International Council on Clean Transportation, the Houston area has 31 percent to 40 percent of the charging infrastructure in place to meet the demand needed by 2025.

The deadline for RFI submissions is 4 p.m. August 7.