Collins Electrical Company, Inc. (CECI) is proud to announce we have received the 2025 National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Project Excellence Award in the Electric Vehicle (EV) category for the WattEV Electric Truck Charging Depot in Bakersfield, California. Completed in May 2024, this depot is the first in the U.S. to combine solar-powered microgrid, battery energy storage, and megawatt-level rapid charging for zero-emission 18-wheel cargo trucks.
The project was led by Branch Manager Dave Helsel, with General Superintendent Stefan Davis, Assoc. DBIA, overseeing field operations. Lead Estimator and Project Manager Bryan Hard, Assoc. DBIA, coordinated planning and execution, while Project Coordinator Leslie Byrd and our amazing crew contributed to successful installation, integration, and quality assurance.
The WattEV depot included three complex systems: 3.62 MW solar with 1.2 MW battery storage for off-grid charging, a 12kV utility-tied system powering sixteen 360kW Level 3 chargers, and a 480V system for dispatch, communications, and operations. Collins Electrical overcame evolving designs, utility limitations, and a high-traffic logistics corridor while maintaining top-tier quality, safety, and performance. Innovative techniques included an accordion-style prefabricated solar array installation and extensive use of digital field layouts to streamline construction.
“This project represents the future of EV infrastructure,” said Brian Gini, Co-CEO of Collins Electrical Company, Inc. “Our team delivered a first-of-its-kind depot that combines innovation, skill, and sustainability. Receiving the NECA Project Excellence Award is a proud recognition of everyone’s hard work and dedication.”
The WattEV Electric Truck Charging Depot sets a national benchmark for sustainable electric truck infrastructure and highlights CECI’s leadership in advanced electrical construction. To read more about the project please visit: https://www.collinselectric.com/press-releases/collins-electrical-company-inc-powers-the-future-with-wattevs-largest-electric-truck-charging-depot-in-bakersfield-ca/
