The Driving on Sunshine Campaign is run by Charge Across Town, a not-for-profit organisation promoting electric vehicle use in the Bay Area, in association with the San Francisco Department of the Environment and Envision Solar, who will provide the equipment.

It launches with three locations, which will offer free charging for a three-month period before being moved on. The aim is to collect data on the frequency and duration of use, to roll out a future network of charging points in the areas where they will be used the most.

Speaking at the launch, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee said: “This innovative program allows the City of San Francisco to demonstrate that electric vehicles can charge from 100-percent renewable sources, with no impact to the electric grid and with absolutely zero emissions,” said. “Driving on Sunshine is a perfect example of taking innovative action to protect the climate.”

Maureen Blanc, director of Charge Across Town, added: “San Francisco is a national leader in both electric vehicle adoption and renewable energy use, and Driving on Sunshine further empowers residents to take an active role in reducing emissions.

“We are encouraged by the support we’ve seen from local businesses and government organizations, and we look forward to working alongside our partners to elevate environmental awareness through this innovative public-private collaboration.”