Best Practices to Fast-Track NEVI Electric Vehicle Charging Station Deployments

By Michael Harrison

December 5, 2024 at 12:12 PM

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program has begun deploying EV charging stations across states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Hawaii, and Maine since its establishment under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Here are key best practices to accelerate NEVI deployments effectively:

Remove Bonds and Letters of Credit Requirements

  • Eliminate Letters of Credit (LOC) and bonds from application process
  • These requirements add unnecessary paperwork and costs
  • Don't increase project completion likelihood
  • Example: Texas DOT simplified by removing bonds/LOCs and requesting basic cost estimates

Deploy Funding Strategically

  • Implement multiple funding rounds with predictable schedules
  • Provide at least 90 days for submission completion
  • Maintain clear timelines and processes on websites
  • Success examples: Ohio and Pennsylvania's multiple grant solicitations

Share Location Information Effectively

  • Provide eligible locations with GIS/map files
  • Include specific requirements (24/7 access, distance from fuel corridors)
  • Maintain flexibility in location eligibility
  • Example: Illinois' draft NOFO approach with clear location requirements

Additional Acceleration Strategies:

  • Use transparent scoring rubrics
  • Request single-site applications
  • Streamline utility coordination
  • Maintain reasonable development timelines (typically up to 18 months)

Group cutting ribbon at EVgo ceremony

Group cutting ribbon at EVgo ceremony

These practices help streamline the deployment process while maintaining program integrity and ensuring successful implementation of EV charging infrastructure across the United States.

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