NOPEC has been selected as one of 10 new Regional Engagement Partners for Charging Smart, a national program led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and funded by U.S. Department of Energy. Working with Cleveland-based Adenium Consulting, NOPEC is inviting Ohio communities to join a free cohort beginning in January 2027. Click here to read IREC's announcement.
Charging Smart helps local governments prepare for electric vehicle (EV) charging by reviewing practical steps such as zoning, permitting, and utility coordination. Local governments receive free technical assistance, a roadmap toward a nationally recognized Bronze, Solver, or Gold designation. The program is part of IREC's Energy Ready suite, which also includes SolSmart, a program NOPEC has helped bring to Northeast Ohio communities.
The upcoming cohort will focus on Bronze designation, an accessible starting point for communities with no prior EV expertise. Participants will have access to one-on-one guidance, adaptable planning and permitting resources, and opportunities to learn alongside other Ohio communities. Participation will be through hybrid sessions, held in NOPEC offices, starting January 2027.
EV readiness matters in communities of every size. For smaller and rural communities, charging can help invite travelers to stop and explore local restaurants, shops, and attractions, especially along travel corridors and near recreation destinations, supporting the economy. Charging Smart gives local leaders a way to assess that opportunity and prepare for future investment.
The first set of 2026 NOPEC Charging Smart cohort communities include: Austintown Township, Avon Lake, Bedford, Cleveland Heights, East Cleveland, Kent, North Olmsted, North Royalton, Pepper Pike, Richfield Village, Sebring, and Solon. NOPEC is currently pursuing regional Charging Smart designation.
A quick snapshot on what Charging Smart offers your community for free:
A clear roadmap to designation, with expert guidance at every step
Zoning templates, model permitting language, and ready-to-use tools tailored to your communitiy's needs
Personalized one-on-one technical assistance: no prior EV expertise required
Peer learning alongside other Ohio communities going through the process together
National recognition as an EV-ready municipality upon designation
Early enrollment opportunity: Communities that enroll with NOPEC by October 16, 2026, may receive fully funded attendance at the National EV Innovation Summit, November 3-5 in Toledo. This incentive is limited to the first 10 communities that enroll with us.
Interested in joining or learning more? Complete the Charging Smart interest form or contact Deepa Vedavyas, NOPEC Director of Sustainability & Resiliency, at dvedavyas@npoec.org
