Earlier this month the U.S. Departments of Transportation and Energy announced that nearly $5 billion will be used in states across America to expand upon the current national electric vehicle charging network. It is hoped the move will encourage an increase in electric vehicle sales, as well as making charging stations more accessible.
The funding will allow states to build upon their electric vehicles charging networks over the next five years along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors, with a focus along the Interstate Highway System. These dedicated ‘fuel corridors’ will act as a ‘spine’ of the new national EV charging network, helping to support the United States ambitious plans to install 500,000 EV chargers by 2030.
Before each state can begin construction, they must submit an EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan to the new Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, that describes how the state intends to use its share of NEVI Formula Program funds consistent with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidance. This is to ensure that the funds will be spent correctly and that the charging stations will be convenient, reliable and affordable for those who use them.
“Americans need to know that they can purchase an electric vehicle and find convenient charging stations when they are using Interstates and other major highways,” Deputy Federal Highway Administrator Stephanie Pollack said. “The new EV formula program will provide states with the resources they need to provide their residents with reliable access to an EV charging station as they travel.”
It is hoped that this funding, alongside other measures, will help the US transition towards a more sustainable future.