From Santa Cruz to the Future: OpenRoad’s Mission to Transform EV Fast Charging

Santa Cruz-based OpenRoad Technologies is proud to announce its selection as one of the awardees in the prestigious California Energy Commission’s CalSEED Concept Award program. With its headquarters in the historic Wrigley Building on Santa Cruz’s Westside, OpenRoad has been awarded $200K to further its mission of addressing critical barriers to electric vehicle (EV) adoption through innovative and cost-effective DC fast-charging solutions.

The CalSEED program, funded by the Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) through the California Energy Commission, supports early-stage clean energy innovations that promote renewable energy, resilient electricity systems, advanced electrification, and community well-being. OpenRoad’s selection underscores its potential to contribute to California’s ambitious energy transition goals by making reliable, high-speed EV charging accessible to locations where it has traditionally been unaffordable or impractical.

OpenRoad was selected from nearly 100 applicants in an extensive five-month review process of companies focused on early-stage innovations addressing California’s key energy challenges. After rigorous evaluation by a panel of energy experts, OpenRoad stood out for its innovation, social impact, and ability to support underserved communities while meeting the state’s climate and energy goals.

“California’s clean energy future hinges on breaking down barriers to EV adoption,” said Evan Kirchhoff, Co-founder and CEO. “In order for EVs to succeed, fast charging needs to be available everywhere and for everyone. This grant empowers us to accelerate the development of our modular, low-cost DC fast-charging technology, ensuring that equitable and sustainable transportation becomes a reality for all.”

By leveraging the CalSEED Concept Award, OpenRoad will refine its technology, focusing on affordability, modularity, and integration with existing infrastructure. From its Santa Cruz headquarters, OpenRoad aims to expand access to reliable DC fast-charging in urban, rural, and underserved areas, as well as in everyone’s home. The company is committed to supporting California’s clean energy transition and strengthening the California electrical grid, while fostering local economic growth.

“We’re thrilled to be part of Santa Cruz’s growing startup ecosystem, which is fueled by a strong sense of community and innovation,” said Shawn Hickey, Co-Founder & COO of OpenRoad. “This region’s entrepreneurial spirit, combined with its commitment to sustainability, makes it the perfect place for us to develop solutions that can help transform California’s energy future.”

To learn more about OpenRoad and its mission to shape the future of energy visit https://openroad.eco/

For additional information about the CalSEED program and the groundbreaking technologies from the 7th cohort, visit https://calseed.fund/announcing-calseed-cohort-7-powering-californias-clean-energy-future/