The Port of San Diego has taken a major step toward establishing a large-scale electric truck charging facility by certifying an environmental impact report and approving a coastal development permit for a project proposed by Skychargers, LLC. Port commissioners also gave staff the go-ahead to finalize a preliminary term sheet with the company while lease discussions move forward.
The planned facility would occupy nearly five acres at 19th Street and Tidelands Avenue, an industrial location adjacent to the National City Marine Terminal. According to the proposal, the charging hub would feature 70 ports capable of handling both quick opportunity charges and longer overnight sessions. The site would also include a convenience store and restroom facilities for truck drivers.
Port officials say the development aligns with the agency's Maritime Clean Air Strategy, an initiative adopted in 2021 to cut diesel emissions from cargo operations around San Diego Bay. Board Chair Ann Moore stated the project reflects an ongoing commitment to cleaner air and zero-emissions technology that benefits communities around the waterfront. Commissioner GilAnthony Ungab emphasized the public health benefits and thanked residents who provided input during the planning process.
The charging station would be powered in part by an on-site solar array generating more than 1,700 kilowatts, paired with a battery storage system. Skycharger is also developing a program that would allow trucking companies to test electric vehicles for 90 days before committing to a five-year ownership plan, reducing the financial barriers to adopting cleaner technology.
Under the preliminary agreement, Skycharger would lease the property for 20 years with an option to extend for five more. The company has committed to contributing $150,000 annually throughout the lease term for community benefits. Construction cannot begin until a final lease is signed and building permits are obtained, which port staff expect to bring before commissioners in the coming months.