U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced revised guidance for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, aiming to streamline the application process and provide states with greater flexibility. The changes are intended to cut through bureaucratic hurdles and ensure effective use of federal funds for building electric vehicle charging stations.
"The Biden-Buttigieg Administration failed to deliver EV chargers despite their promises," Duffy said. "Our revised NEVI guidance slashes red tape and makes it easier for states to efficiently build out this infrastructure."
The NEVI program was originally established to support state deployment of EV charging infrastructure. However, Duffy criticized the previous administration's requirements as overly complex, noting that 84% of program funds remained unobligated earlier this year.
Under the new Interim Final Guidance, states are required to submit their EV Infrastructure Deployment Plans within 30 days. The updated guidance aligns with Executive Order 14154 "Unleashing American Energy" and aims to eliminate mandates not supported by statutory language.
Key changes include simplifying state plan approval processes, reducing consultation requirements, and providing flexibility in determining station distances along fuel corridors. Additionally, the guidance minimizes requirements related to electric grid integration and renewable energy considerations.
Duffy emphasized that while he does not agree with subsidizing green energy, his department will respect Congress' directive and ensure efficient use of resources.
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