Biden Admin Awards $623 Million To Shore Up EV Charging Network In US

Biden Admin Awards $623 Million To Shore Up EV Charging Network In US. Photo: Pexels

Amid the push for electric vehicles, the Joe Biden administration in the United States (US) has awarded $623 million in grants to states, and local governments to help them build and expand Electric Vehicle (EV) charging networks in the country. The grants aim to clear the way for funding of 47 EV charging stations and related projects in 22 states in the US, including 7,500 EV charging ports, a press release by the US Department of Transportation read.

“The aim behind this monetary boost is to also create jobs and ensure more drivers can charge their electric vehicles where they live, work, and shop,” said the US government adding that building 5,00,000 publicly available chargers by 2030 and ensuring that EVs are made in America are a critical goal of Biden Administration.

On the approval of the grant, US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, “America led the arrival of the automotive era, and now we have a chance to lead the world in the EV revolution—securing jobs, savings, and benefits for Americans in the process”. He also added, “This funding will help ensure that EV chargers are accessible, reliable, and convenient for American drivers while creating jobs in charger manufacturing, installation, and maintenance for American workers.”

The Federal Highway Administration has also awarded $311 million to 36 projects, including two belonging to Indian Tribes in Alaska and Arizona. The funding aims to bolster these projects meant for EV charging and hydrogen fueling infrastructure in urban and rural communities and at public places. According to the US Department of Transportation, another $312 million will also be given to those recipients whose projects are located along roadways designated as ‘Alternative Fuel Corridors’.

“The Federal Highway Administration is pleased to announce these grants that will bring EV charging and alternative fuels to people and communities all across the nation,” said Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt while also emphasizing that these investments through the CFI Program will grow America’s national EV charging network.

The US is witnessing a gradual shift towards EVs as a record 1.2 million U.S. vehicle buyers opted for electric vehicles last year, according to estimates from Kelley Blue Book, a Cox Automotive company. This translates into 11,89,051 new electric vehicles (EVs) that came into service on American roads.