Gov. DeWine announces phase two of making Ohio more EV friendly

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Ohio is becoming more electric vehicle-friendly after phase two of the governor’s plan to install more EV charging sites statewide was announced on Thursday.

Governor Mike DeWine has announced that the state will award nearly $16 million to install 22 new EV fast-charging stations along Ohio’s interstates, state routes and U.S. routes.

As more electric cars and trucks make their way to Ohio roadways, we’re continuing to build the infrastructure needed to enable easy and convenient travel,” said Governor DeWine.

This comes after Governor DeWine allocated more than $18 million of national NEVI funds in July 2023 for EV charging stations along I-70, I-71, I-74, I-75, I-76, I-77, and I-90.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s website, the NEVI program is a part of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s push for states to make electric vehicles (EVs) more efficient for consumer use. The website also mentions that “funding is available for up to 80% of eligible project costs” to implement the NEVI program.

In addition to the $16 million recently announced in phase two of NEVI fund spending, more than $4 million will be matched by private companies also benefitting from the new EV stations. Those companies include:

• Electric Era
• Francis Energy Charging
• Jule
• Love’s Travel Stops
• Meijer
• Red E Charging
• Sheetz
• EVgo
• United Dairy Farmers

DeWine stated in 2023 that the goal is for charging stations to be located every 50 miles in the state, and that each station will include at least four, 24/7 accessible charging ports. The stations will also have “easy access to food, drink and restrooms.”

Ohio continues to lead the way to a future where everyone can ride and drive electric,” said Gabe Klein, Executive Director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. “Congratulations to the team at DriveOhio for their diligent work to rapidly move the NEVI program forward.”

Over the next four years, Ohio is set to receive around $124 million in NEVI funds to install EV charging stations across the state.