Electric vehicles (EVs) are steadily gaining ground among consumers. As more EVs take to the roadways, they’ll need supporting infrastructure like charging stations to keep them going. That’s where the newly created National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program comes in. It’s an initiative by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to develop and deploy public infrastructure to support electric vehicles and help fuel their growth and adoption. In this overview of NEVI, we’ll look at how it works and what it means for states, and companies that are stepping up to support EV infrastructure needs.
Electric vehicle adoption has increased globally. In fact, Bloomberg New Energy Finance shared that by 2040, 70 percent of all new passenger vehicles will be electric, which speaks to the popularity of these cars among consumers.
A few of the reasons drivers are switching to EVs include:
Drivers who choose EVs need to know that infrastructure for their vehicles is in place and convenient. To support this increasing demand, the U.S. needs a more extensive modern charging infrastructure.
The NEVI program is leading the charge and aims to make EV charging more accessible and affordable. Part of the program’s purpose is to accelerate public EV charging station infrastructure across America and create what is being called an “Alternative Fuel Corridor.” The program will provide various resources to help states develop these public EV charging stations along existing interstate highways (and other locations) nationwide.
The program is also meant to encourage more EV adoption by making it easier to find nearby charging stations, helping to lower electricity rates and providing the overall benefit of better-managed power grids.
Essentially, NEVI provides grants and funding to states, cities and local entities to develop their public EV charging infrastructure. This funding can include research dollars and grants for building out public EV charging stations.
A large portion of the NEVI program is designed for state Departments of Transportation to work with local and federal government officials to propose public EV charging sites in their state. Approved deployment plans that meet regulatory guidelines are then eligible for assistance.
The Joint Office of Energy and Transportation has a website dedicated to electric vehicle use, including information for drivers, state and local officials, utility companies and more. The Department of Energy provides technical assistance and guidance on best practices for developing public EV infrastructure. (A complete FAQ sheet on NEVI can be found here.)
Additionally, the NEVI Program offers a range of incentives for businesses and individuals considering investing in public EV chargers. These can include tax credits, discounts on installation costs, regulatory assistance and other forms of support.
The decisions states, utilities and business leaders make now have the potential to shape what American transportation looks like for decades to come. The NEVI Program is one way to help decision-makers have access to the information and funds they need to get the job done.
If you work in an engineering or program management role related to EVs or EV infrastructure, consider joining a professional org dedicated to EVs if you haven’t yet. With demand for charging stations poised to increase, you’ll be highly sought after — especially when states and municipalities start receiving their NEVI program approvals.
You’ll also want to be sure your organization has a shortlist of manufacturing partners with experience producing large-scale pieces at a high volume. If you can find one with EV or clean energy infrastructure manufacturing experience too, then all the better. You’ll be prepared to hit the ground running when it’s time to manufacture and scale your company’s electric vehicle charging station enclosures.
The U.S. Department of Energy is taking big steps towards a greener future by initiating the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program. Being ready to partner with organizations that are passionate about advancing energy efficiency, and having manufacturing partners who can deliver precisely the pieces you need, will put you in the driver’s seat for the newest phase of American transportation history.
Maysteel fabricates custom enclosures and cabinets for EV charging stations and backup, energy storage, generators, solar inverters & other alternative energy applications. Talk to our team about your EV infrastructure program.
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