Bipartisan Initiative Boosts EV and Hydrogen Infrastructure Across America
Key Ideas
- The U.S. Department of Transportation is providing $635 million in grants for EV charging and alternative fueling infrastructure across 27 states and the District of Columbia.
- This funding is part of the Biden administration's effort to support the EV transition, create jobs, and accelerate the country's shift to a clean energy economy.
- The grants also include investments in hydrogen refueling infrastructure to complement America's growing hydrogen economy and reduce freight-related carbon emissions.
- The awards prioritize disadvantaged communities, with 67% of funding going to sites located in these areas, aiming to create jobs, reduce transportation costs, and mitigate healthcare issues caused by air pollution.
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has announced $635 million in grants to further develop electric vehicle (EV) charging and alternative fueling infrastructure across the United States. This initiative is part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and aims to support the EV transition while promoting job creation and sustainable practices. The grants will fund 49 projects deploying over 11,500 EV charging ports, hydrogen, and natural gas fueling infrastructure in 27 states, four Federally Recognized Tribes, and the District of Columbia.
The Biden administration has set a goal to establish 500,000 publicly available EV chargers by 2030, with over 206,000 currently accessible. These investments have not only increased the number of chargers but have also incentivized industry investment in EV charging infrastructure and manufacturing, leading to job growth nationwide. The grants are a result of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law's Charging and Fueling Infrastructure programs, which also include a focus on hydrogen refueling infrastructure to accelerate the hydrogen economy and reduce carbon emissions.
The initiative prioritizes disadvantaged communities, with 67% of the funding directed to these areas to create jobs, reduce transportation expenses, and address healthcare costs related to air pollution. The grants align with the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy, aiming to expand hydrogen transportation fueling infrastructure to support the deployment of zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. This effort not only benefits the environment by reducing carbon emissions but also improves air quality in communities affected by diesel emissions. Through these investments, the U.S. is moving towards a cleaner transportation future while promoting equity and job opportunities across the country.