Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Program

To review the State’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Plan, click the banner below:

Alabama’s EV Planning Process

Overview

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs has been designated to administer federal and state funds for EV charging infrastructure and lead Alabama’s electric vehicle infrastructure planning process. ADECA developed a multi-stakeholder EV Advisory Group in 2020 that has been expanded twice and now involves 66 individuals including citizen EV owners and representatives of 41 different stakeholder organizations. Four subcommittees have been formed on the advisory group: Utility Subcommittee; Equity Considerations Subcommittee; Labor and Workforce Considerations Subcommittee; Public Engagement and Collaborative Funding Opportunities Subcommittee.

ADECA manages two programs for EV charging infrastructure. The goals of each program are different but complementary and discussed in detail in the Summer 2022 Version of the Alabama Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan linked above.

Public Input Always Accepted

It is important to the state to receive input from interested parties. Anyone interested in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, sharing information, or commenting on the development of the plan is encouraged to submit comments to ev@adeca.alabama.gov. Comments submitted will be evaluated and considered during future updates to the plan.

How to Stay Informed

Click HERE to sign up for ADECA’s EV mailing list to receive program-related updates whenever they are announced.

Alabama’s EV Infrastructure Funding Programs

National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program

Alabama is projected to receive $79,308,285 through the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) formula program over the next five years. This program involves up to 80% federal funding and at least 20% non-federal matching on each project, with the non-federal funds expected to come from grant applicants. ADECA plans to administer these funds through a competitive grant program starting sometime early in the first half of 2023.

As background, Alabama submitted its “Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan” to the federal Joint Office of Energy and Transportation on July 28,2022 and the plan was approved on September 28, 2022. Also, on September 28, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) indicated plans to expeditiously finalize a rulemaking that will establish ground rules for how formula NEVI funds can be spent. FHWA also announced an updated Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document available on its website.

Electric Vehicle Infrastructure and Planning Grant Program at ADECA

Alabama also has a state-funded program which provides opportunities for charging infrastructure grants in areas of the state and for types of chargers that are not eligible under the federal NEVI program.

Ongoing priorities for this state program will include fast-charging projects along non-interstate corridors and Level 2 charging projects at locations where people have longer dwell times, including workplaces, tourist attractions, shopping centers, and near multi-family dwellings.

FAQ

What costs can be covered by the Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure grant funds?

EV Infrastructure funds can cover the acquisition, installation, operation and maintenance of new light duty zero emission vehicle supply equipment for projects. Funds may not be used to purchase or rent real-estate, for other capital costs (e.g., construction of buildings, parking facilities, etc.) or general maintenance (i.e., maintenance other than of the Supply Equipment).

Should applicants with multiple potential charging sites submit applications for individual sites or one application covering multiple sites?

Each site should be a separate application.

Will utilities be providing any additional project support (e.g. funding to cover make-ready infrastructure)?

Partnerships are encouraged but must be between the applicant and their partner.

Will partnership contributions count towards match?

Yes, but contributions must be documented. Any match committed to the project is the responsibility of the applicant.

What is the turn-around time for announcements?

It is anticipated that announcements will be made within 90 days of the close of the application.

Is there a specific timeframe for acquisition, installation, and operation?

It is typically expected that construction will be complete within 12 months. If any delays are anticipated, applicants should outline these delays in the application. The proposed timeline should reflect time required to comply with all applicable state and federal laws.

Will there be additional funding opportunities for Electric Vehicle Infrastructure projects?

Any subsequent rounds will be determined based on the funds available.