“Accelerating Electric Mobility: A Comprehensive Overview of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan”

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan is a comprehensive strategy established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to support the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) chargers across the United States 3. The plan is designed to provide $5 billion over five years, specifically allocated to states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico, to create an extensive network of EV fast charging stations along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs), with a significant focus on the Interstate Highway System 5.

Key Components of the NEVI Plan:

1. Funding Allocation: The NEVI Formula Program allocates nearly $5 billion to support the creation of EV charging infrastructure. Each state is required to submit a plan detailing how they intend to utilize the NEVI funds, which must be approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) before the funds can be obligated 3.
2. State Plans: As of the first year of the program, all state plans were submitted and approved, indicating a strong interest and commitment to the NEVI program. These plans outline the deployment strategies, including the designation of portions of the National Highway Systems as AFCs, and prioritize the build-out along the Interstate Highway System 5.
3. Technical Assistance: The Joint Office of Energy and Transportation (Joint Office) provides technical assistance to stakeholders in the EV infrastructure sector. This includes guidance on procurement strategies, station siting, cybersecurity, program evaluation, and community engagement 5.
4. Cybersecurity and Data Management: The NEVI Plan emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity and the establishment of a reliable network for data collection and management to ensure the long-term success of the investments made under the program 1.
5. Equity and Accessibility: The plan considers the need for publicly available EV charging infrastructure in rural areas and underserved communities, aiming to promote accessibility and reduce transportation costs while creating employment opportunities and reducing emissions 1.
6. Buy America Requirements: The NEVI Formula Program adheres to ‘Buy America’ provisions, which means that the EV charging equipment must be manufactured in the United States, supporting domestic manufacturing and job creation 6.
7. Environmental Considerations: The NEVI Plan takes into account the environmental impact of the charging stations, including their location within previously disturbed or developed areas and compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 4.
8. ADA and Section 504 Compliance: Charging stations funded by the NEVI program must be accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities, following ADA and Section 504 requirements 13.
9. Involvement of Private Entities: The NEVI Formula Program allows for the contracting of private entities for the acquisition, installation, operation, and maintenance of publicly accessible EV charging infrastructure 5.
10. Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023: The first year of the NEVI program saw the release of $1.5 billion to support the implementation of state plans, with an expectation that up to $3.5 billion of the total $5 billion could remain for additional capacity or deployment in non-AFC locations after the initial build-out 5.

The NEVI Plan represents a significant step towards the widespread adoption of electric vehicles by addressing the infrastructure needs necessary to support them. It aims to create a connected and accessible network of charging stations that will facilitate long-distance travel and daily commuting for EV drivers, while also promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability.