National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Funds

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) administers the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program, which provides federal funds through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support the development of a nationwide network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Pennsylvania is slated to receive approximately $171.5 million in NEVI funds over five years, directed toward expanding reliable, publicly accessible EV charging along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors. The program aligns with federal goals to create a connected, efficient, and equitable charging network to encourage EV adoption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. The NEVI Round 1B funding opportunity continues PennDOT’s phased approach to building out EV infrastructure. Round 1B opened on May 13, 2024, and closed on July 10, 2024. This round specifically targets remaining gaps along Pennsylvania’s designated charging corridors after the completion of Rounds 1 and 1A. The intent is to ensure that all federally designated Alternative Fuel Corridors in the state meet the required spacing standards for DC Fast Charging sites, typically no more than 50 miles apart and within one mile of highway exits. Eligible projects include installations that are publicly accessible 24 hours a day and comply with both Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and PennDOT NEVI guidelines. Under Round 1B, applicants may receive funding for up to 80 percent of eligible project costs, with the remaining 20 percent to be covered through other, non-federal sources. The match requirement ensures shared investment between government and private partners. Allowable expenses include equipment procurement, installation, electrical service upgrades, site design, permitting, and network connection costs. Ineligible costs are those not aligned with FHWA cost principles or PennDOT’s specific NEVI guidelines. Contractors are expected to adhere to federal Buy America standards and provide operations and maintenance assurances for a minimum performance period. Eligibility for Round 1B is open to any qualified entity registered and in good standing with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including private developers, utilities, and partnerships, provided they meet program criteria and have no outstanding debts to the government. Applicants must also ensure compliance with the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) requirements for electricians performing installations. Applications are submitted electronically through PennDOT’s designated platform following the guidance outlined in the Round 1B Funding Opportunity document. Applications were evaluated based on corridor coverage, network accessibility, site design and safety, cost-effectiveness, project readiness, and equity considerations. PennDOT prioritized proposals that enhance user experience, support rural and disadvantaged communities, and provide reliable service across multiple charging network providers. Awards for Round 1B were expected to be announced in late 2024, continuing Pennsylvania’s multi-year rollout of EV infrastructure investments. For further details or technical assistance, prospective applicants were directed to contact PennDOT at ra-pdevcorridors@pa.gov. The official Round 1B Funding Opportunity and accompanying guidance materials were made available on the PennDOT NEVI Program website. The NEVI program’s ongoing implementation is expected to continue through 2028, with additional funding rounds anticipated annually thereafter as Pennsylvania advances toward a complete statewide EV charging network.

Prioritize corridor readiness, reliability, and equity; ensure compliance with 80/20 cost-share and EVITP certification.