U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has issued revised guidance for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, aimed at accelerating the deployment of EV chargers across the nation.
The updated guidelines are designed to streamline permitting processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and provide states with greater flexibility in utilising federal funds. This move is expected to fast-track the installation of thousands of EV chargers, helping the Biden administration achieve its target of deploying 500,000 public chargers by 2030.
Key revisions include:
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Simplified compliance requirements for states and private partners.
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Enhanced coordination with utility companies to speed up grid connections.
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Expanded eligibility for rural and underserved communities to ensure equitable EV infrastructure access.
Secretary Duffy emphasised that modernising the guidance will not only accelerate charger rollout but also strengthen U.S. competitiveness in the global EV sector. “By cutting red tape, we’re enabling faster deployment of charging stations that communities and drivers need,” he said.
Industry stakeholders, including automakers and charging providers, welcomed the update, highlighting that regulatory clarity and efficiency are critical for meeting growing EV demand.
The NEVI programme, created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides $5 billion over five years to support the nationwide EV charging network. With the revised guidance, experts expect states to ramp up charger installations more quickly, particularly along highways and major travel corridors.