US Government invests $521m to expand national EV charging network

The US government has unveiled a major investment of $52 million in grants designed to bolster the country's electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. This funding will be allocated across 29 states, two Federally Recognized Tribes, and the District of Columbia, supporting the installation of over 9,200 new EV charging ports.

This initiative represents a significant milestone in the broader US strategy to develop a comprehensive, affordable, and reliable EV charging network nationwide.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg remarked, “The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to leading the EV revolution. Thanks to the historic infrastructure package, we’re creating a nationwide network of EV chargers to ensure every driver has an accessible, reliable, and convenient way to power their vehicle.”

He added, “Today's awards will build on this vital work, securing the cost savings, health benefits, climate advantages, and job opportunities associated with the EV future for Americans across the country.”

Expanding the EV Charging Network

The initiative aims to enhance EV charging access for light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles along highways, interstates, and major roads. The goal is to make EV ownership more practical and attractive by ensuring drivers can charge their vehicles at home, at work, and along major routes.

Since President Joe Biden’s administration began, the number of publicly available EV chargers has doubled, surpassing 192,000 nationwide. This expansion has been driven by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has spurred significant private investment in EV charging infrastructure. Currently, around 1,000 new public chargers are added each week, reflecting the rapid growth of the network.

The Role of Government Investment

Key federal programs driving this expansion include the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program and the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. These programs are crucial for filling gaps in charging infrastructure, especially in underserved areas such as rural, suburban, urban, and Tribal communities.

The funding also supports the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy, focusing on EV charging infrastructure for trucks along major freight routes.

Promoting Economic Development and Environmental Sustainability

The new EV infrastructure is expected to significantly advance emission reductions, foster economic growth, and enhance community health. By supporting the shift to electric vehicles, the US is taking a vital step toward cutting pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. These investments are also set to create well-paying union jobs, stimulating economic development across various regions.

Key Community and Corridor EV Charging Projects

Of the $52 million allocated, $31 million will fund 41 community-based projects aimed at expanding local EV charging infrastructure. Notably:

• The City of Milwaukee will receive nearly $15 million to install EV chargers at 53 sites citywide, targeting areas with limited current EV infrastructure. This initiative supports Milwaukee’s climate and equity goals by promoting EV adoption in low-to-moderate-income neighbourhoods and areas with high-density multifamily housing.
• The Standing Rock Renewable Energy Power Authority in North Dakota will get nearly $3.9 million to install community EV charging stations across the Sioux Reservation. These stations will be strategically placed in key gathering spots for Tribal members, ensuring accessibility for underserved communities.

On the corridor front, $20 million will be allocated to 10 fast-charging projects along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors. For example:

• The Fort Independence Indian Community will receive over $15 million to create an EV charging hub along the US Route 395 corridor. This hub will feature a solar micro-grid with combined heat and power generation and battery backup, contributing to emissions reductions and energy resilience.
• The City of Atlanta will receive nearly $11.8 million to establish a DC Fast Charging Hub at Atlanta Airport, featuring 50 DC fast chargers. This hub will serve rental car companies, ride-share drivers, airport shuttles, and regional EV drivers, enhancing access to fast charging in a major transit hub.

The US government's substantial investment in EV charging infrastructure marks a major leap forward in developing a robust and accessible network across the country. These landmark investments will ensure that more Americans, whether in urban centres, rural areas, or along busy highways, have the opportunity to drive electric.

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