Trump Administration Launches Revised EV Charger Initiative | Carscoops

      States can anticipate simplified applications, increased flexibility, and a quicker approval process for funding EV chargers.

      

      

      by Michael Gauthier

      

      The U.S. has revised the EV charger program to facilitate approvals and broaden funding access for states.

      The new regulations allow states to install charging stations with fewer regulatory and planning obligations.

      The Transportation Secretary has expressed criticism of subsidies but remains committed to advancing the federal charger program.

      Earlier this year, the Federal Highway Administration effectively halted the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, informing state transportation directors that the Trump administration had chosen to review the policies related to the NEVI program, with updated guidance aimed to better align with their new priorities.

      Many were concerned that this would spell trouble for the $5 billion initiative included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Nevertheless, the Trump administration is now reluctantly proceeding with efforts to support electric vehicle charging.

      The Department of Transportation has released revised guidance for the program, stating it will “streamline applications, provide states with more flexibility, and reduce bureaucracy established by the Biden-Buttigieg Administration.” The Trump administration further asserted that their predecessors “squandered time, resources, and public confidence in implementing the program.”

      Fewer requirements, more flexibility

      Setting aside the political disputes, the government indicated that the changes would minimize the content required in state plans and simplify their approval process. States can also expect greater flexibility in determining the suitable distance between charging stations.

      However, the government also pointed out that the revisions remove “requirements for states to address consumer protections, emergency evacuation plans, environmental siting, resilience, and terrain considerations.”

      This approach could be alarming, as having insufficient charging stations on emergency evacuation routes might pose severe risks. Nevertheless, the government stated that states “should … address emergency and evacuation needs, snow removal and seasonal needs, and ways for EV charging to support those needs.”

      An impending deadline

      

      Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy remarked, “While I don’t agree with subsidizing green energy, we will respect Congress’ will and ensure this program utilizes federal resources effectively.” He continued, “Our updated NEVI guidance reduces red tape and simplifies the process for states to efficiently develop this infrastructure.”

      With the new guidance issued, the countdown begins, as states are expected to submit their EV Infrastructure Deployment Plans within 30 days. This swift timeline could lead to challenges ahead.