The planned construction of half a million charging stations for electric vehicles in the USA is taking shape. The relevant Department of Transportation and Department of Energy announced that they will finance the expansion of electric charging infrastructure with $5 billion over the next five years.
States are intended to be supported by this budget in building additional charging stations, with a focus on installing fast charging stations along highways.
Starting this year, U.S. states will be able to access funding of around $615 million upon submission of the required plans. Larger states in terms of area, such as Texas or California, are eligible for up to $60 million, while smaller states such as Idaho and Nevada will receive only around $5 million.
In addition, a second funding program is planned to promote the establishment of charging infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural areas. More detailed information about this program has not been announced yet.
USA as a pioneer in electric charging infrastructure
The bipartisan Infrastructure Act passed in November allocates a total of $7.5 billion for the nationwide expansion of electric charging infrastructure.
According to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, this will allow the USA to build a historic-scale charging network.
Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm added that the program contributes to the modernization of the highway system for drivers who want to take advantage of electric driving benefits in all parts of the country.
Would you like to read more about charging infrastructure? Click here.