New York Accelerates EV Infrastructure Expansion With $28.5 Million Federal Investment

In a significant move to expand electric vehicle (EV) accessibility, New York State has secured an additional $28.5 million in federal funding to establish a comprehensive network of fast-charging stations along its major travel corridors.

In detail, this second round of funding through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program specifically targets the state’s southern region, including the heavily trafficked areas of the lower Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island.

Notably, the state has witnessed a remarkable 660% increase in EV purchases over the past five years, creating an urgent need for expanded charging capabilities. Currently, New York hosts more than 15,500 chargers spread across 4,500 public locations, combining both DC fast chargers and Level 2 charging options.

What makes this new funding particularly significant is its focus on creating a standardized, reliable charging network. The NEVI program mandates specific requirements that ensure consistent quality and accessibility. Each funded charging station must be capable of charging at least four vehicles simultaneously at a minimum of 150 kilowatts per vehicle, even when all stations are in use.

Additionally, these facilities must remain accessible around the clock and incorporate both CCS and NACS (J3400) connectors, ensuring compatibility with virtually all electric vehicles on the road.

The strategic placement of these charging stations is carefully planned to maximize their utility. All installations must be within one mile of designated Alternative Fuel Corridors, which include major arteries such as Interstate 87 south of I-84, Interstate 95, and several other key highways connecting the region.

Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the initiative’s broader implications stating, “Making quick, reliable charging easily available will encourage more people to drive EVs that help to lower pollution from vehicles, provide cleaner air for New Yorkers, and improve health in our communities.”

Moreover, this latest funding builds upon an earlier allocation of $21 million for upstate regions, demonstrating New York’s comprehensive approach to statewide EV infrastructure development.

The impact of this federal support extends beyond the immediate funding. New York State is set to receive around $175 million through NEVI over a five-year period, positioning it as a leader in sustainable transportation infrastructure. The state has already demonstrated its ability to effectively utilize these resources, becoming one of the first to open a NEVI-funded DC fast-charging site in December 2023, with four additional locations launching in 2024.

Furthermore, this initiative aligns with broader federal efforts to support EV infrastructure. In January 2024, New York received an additional $15 million through the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program Grant, targeting smaller cities and tourist destinations.

In addition, the state also secured $13 million to upgrade or replace outdated charging equipment through the Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program.

Read More: U.S. Accelerates EV Charging Expansion: Nearly 12,000 Ports Added In Late 2024

As New York continues to lead in sustainable transportation initiatives, this latest funding represents more than just an infrastructure investment—it is a crucial step toward achieving the state’s ambitious climate goals and ensuring a more sustainable future for its residents through reliable and accessible EV charging.

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