Grants awarded to boost Wisconsin’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure
MADISON, Wis. — More than 50 locations across Wisconsin have received funding to newly build or expand existing fast charging electric vehicle stations.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation on Thursday awarded $23.3 million of the more than $78 million the state is expected to receive from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program under the federal Infrastructure Law over the next five years.
After receiving more than 260 applications during the first round Request for Proposals for the Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, 53 projects won funding.
WisDOT said the total cost for the 53 awarded projects is estimated at $33.8 million, including the $23.3 million in federal funds secured through the law, and $10.5 million in private financing. The program requires applicants to provide at least a 20 percent match to federal funds.
The charging stations will be built along Wisconsin’s Alternative Fuel Corridor, reaching all corners of the state, to support the more than 23,000 EVs registered in the state, as well as travelers and visitors.
Two Tribal Nations will receive more than $800,000 in funding and 13 selected sites will be installed in disadvantaged communities. Wisconsin is the first state to award NEVI funds to a Tribal Nation.
WisDOT said it anticipated construction may begin at some locations as early as late summer.
The agency is evaluating opportunities to invest the remaining $55 million in EV infrastructure projects across Wisconsin.
