New York State is set to bolster its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure with a $13 million federal grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration’s Electric Vehicle Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program. Governor Kathy Hochul heralded this funding as a pivotal step towards fortifying the state’s charging network and advancing its commitment to combatting climate change.

The grant aims to address the repair or replacement of malfunctioning EV charging ports, ensuring their reliability and accessibility for motorists across New York. As part of a broader $148.8 million initiative benefiting 24 applicants in 20 states, this funding underscores the pivotal role of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in promoting sustainable transportation solutions nationwide. The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program, a key provision of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, allocates $5 billion towards deploying standardized fast chargers along interstate highways. New York stands to receive $175 million over five years under this program, subject to annual plan updates submitted to the Federal Highway Administration.

Governor Hochul emphasized New York’s leadership in environmental innovation and outlined plans to maintain and enhance the existing EV charging infrastructure. Through partnerships with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and other stakeholders, the state aims to administer the grant effectively, with a focus on ensuring operational efficiency and longevity of charging stations. By investing in infrastructure upgrades, New York aims to facilitate convenient and reliable charging options, thereby fostering economic growth and environmental stewardship.

The Repair and Replacement funding opportunity not only addresses immediate maintenance needs but also aligns with New York’s broader efforts to electrify transportation and reduce carbon emissions. Initiatives such as EV Make Ready, EVolve NY, and federal NEVI funding contribute to expanding access to EVs and fostering cleaner air and healthier communities statewide.

Click here to read the full article, originally published January 26, 2024, by The Record.