Electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure remains a pioneering industry as states race to expand their networks to support long-distance travel for EV drivers. Both Kentucky and Wisconsin are among the latest to push for expanded EV charging infrastructure after issuing Requests for Proposals (RFP) for $55 million and $40 million, respectively.
Kentucky received $70 million from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program between Fiscal Years 2022 and 2026. Currently, around $55 million has been obligated to the state and will be available during the most recent round of funding. RFP responses are due by July 13.
The state anticipates awarding at least one project site in each NEVI zone across Kentucky, totaling 32 zones in corridor, urban and rural areas. Each project must design, build or engage in associated work needed to update existing EV supply equipment (SE) or build new charging stations.
Projects must include at least four ports, with a minimum of two of those being DCFC ports. All DCFC ports must be able to continuously charge at 150 kilowatts (kW) concurrently. Any Level 2 ports must charge at least six kW concurrently. Proposals must only include one charging site, and applicants are limited to one proposal per zone.
Eligible applicants for the Kentucky EV program include:
- For-profit businesses.
- Privately owned electric utilities.
- Non-profit organizations.
- Governmental entities, except for state agencies.
- Municipal utilities.
- Electric membership cooperative utilities.
- Teaming partnerships that include the above entities.
Awards will be able to cover up to 80% of the project’s cost. The developer will be required to cover the remaining 20% difference.
Kentucky has already made significant progress in supporting the national charging network through its first three rounds. Currently, the state has built 12 stations and 16 under construction. The current round will prioritize projects in areas not covered by these sites.
Wisconsin has opened a similar opportunity, leveraging $40 million to expand the state’s EV charging infrastructure network. Like Kentucky, Wisconsin has already had ample success through its previous NEVI funding rounds, completing 21 charging stations to date. This next funding round will help provide additional charging options and support businesses in local communities and regions. Applications are due by July 24.
The program will cover up to 80% of each project’s cost, with the developer shouldering the remaining 20%. Eligible proposers for this round include private businesses and tribal organizations.
Qualifying costs must be relevant to efforts to design, build, install, operate or maintain EV charging infrastructure. This work may include:
- Site preparation.
- Utility grid updates.
- Installation of EV charging stations or EVSE-related technologies.
- Repairing, upgrading or replacing EVSE.
- Installation of lighting, video surveillance equipment and other on-site safety features.
- Installation of wayfinding solutions.
Photo by Kindel Media from Pexels
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