EV Charging Infrastructure in Pasadena Faces Major Operational Challenges

The Pasadena Municipal Services Committee uncovered significant challenges in the city’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure during its budget workshop on Tuesday, revealing that just 60% of the municipality’s 288 total chargers are currently operational.

Councilmember Tyron Hampton, who said he is an electric vehicle driver for 17 years, expressed deep concerns about the infrastructure.

“Right now, there’s so many repairs that it’s almost as if we should discuss whether we should be in this business,” Hampton said.

City staff confirmed the operational challenges, with David Reyes, General Manager of Pasadena Water and Power (PWP), noting that Glendale currently has “zero fast chargers working.” Of Pasadena’s 288 total chargers, over 50 are classified as fast chargers, with capacities ranging from 50 to 175 kilowatts.

The city is reportedly responding comprehensively to these infrastructure issues. PWP plans to develop a real-time online dashboard showing charger status, focus on fast-charging stations, and improve maintenance through strategic supply inventory and contractor relationships.

The infrastructure challenges come as PWP continues to expand its technological capabilities, including the recently launched MyPWP mobile app and ongoing efforts to improve customer engagement.

As part of its strategic planning, PWP is adding new positions across multiple divisions, including external affairs, customer service, and technological infrastructure, signaling a comprehensive approach to addressing current operational challenges.