Article Summary –
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has signed two laws allowing the state to use federal funds to expand its electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The legislation will enable the state to utilize a $78 million grant from the Department of Transportation’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program, spread over five years. The move has been praised by environmental groups, and a study commissioned by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation suggests that an electric vehicle ecosystem could drive significant economic growth in the state.
Wisconsin Expands Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure with Federal Funding
Gov. Tony Evers signed Wisconsin Acts 121 and 122 on March 20, empowering the state to use federal funds to bolster its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. “Expanding EV charging infrastructure is a critical part of our work to ensure Wisconsin is ready to compete and build a cleaner, more sustainable, and efficient future,” Evers said.
This move utilizes a Department of Transportation grant, part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program, established by President Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021. The initiative aims to establish EV charging facilities along 53,000 miles of US highway.
Wisconsin is among the first 35 states and territories to receive the award, amounting to $78 million over a five-year period. Clean Wisconsin, a nonprofit group combating climate change and pollution, praised Evers’ action, stating that a statewide charging network would greatly reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary Craig Thompson announced that soon 85% of the state’s highway system will always be within 25 miles of a charging station. Act 121 enables commercial charging stations to charge customers per kilowatt hour, a right previously exclusive to regulated utilities. Wisconsin businesses can now seek approval to host a charging station on their property.
Meanwhile, Act 122 grants the state government authority to use the federal award to support businesses offering charging services. A 2023 study predicts that an electric vehicle ecosystem could drive significant economic growth in Wisconsin. The state’s technical colleges and strategic position within the automotive supply chain are contributing factors to this potential future growth.
Echoing this, Ingeteam, a Spanish manufacturer, announced plans to expand its Milwaukee plant to meet the charger demand, expecting to create up to 100 new jobs. said.
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