Sustainable Ohio Public Energy Council (SOPEC)
CESO is partnering with the Sustainable Ohio Public Energy Council (SOPEC) to support the Responsive Interregional Deployment of Electrification Solutions (RIDES) project, a major initiative aimed at strengthening Ohio’s electric vehicle (EV) charging network. Funded through the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program, the project expands access to reliable EV charging across communities in the Dayton region and Southeast Ohio.
CESO’s role includes preparing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation for Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) review for 60 proposed charging sites. Planned locations span a variety of public‑serving facilities, including libraries, schools, parks, and municipal parking lots and garages. In parallel, CESO developed electrical concepts to support utility connections and EV charger infrastructure, helping ensure each site is designed for long‑term functionality and constructability.
This project supports SOPEC’s mission to protect and enhance the environment, promote energy conservation, and improve the quality of life for Ohio communities. By assisting with regulatory compliance and technical planning, CESO is helping local governments in Athens, Amesville, Racine, Belpre, Albany, Chauncey, York Township, Shawnee, Somerset, Trimble, Gallipolis, New Concord, Piketon, Pomeroy, Dayton, and Miamisburg, Ohio, prepare for expanded EV adoption. Together, CESO and SOPEC are advancing community‑focused infrastructure solutions that move Ohio toward a more sustainable transportation future.