The United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has announced a monumental $635m investment to accelerate the expansion of public EV charging and hydrogen fuelling infrastructure nationwide.
Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this initiative aims to create a robust zero-emission transportation network that supports environmental sustainability, job creation, and equitable access to clean energy technologies.
Jeff Marootian, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, highlighted the significance of the investment.
He said: “This funding showcases the harmony in government efforts to maximise federal investments and will build on the Department of Energy’s work to develop the 21st-century energy workforce and prepare the grid to power zero-emission fuelling infrastructure nationwide.
“The new charging and refuelling locations will deliver more accessible and equitable transportation options, create good-paying new jobs, and open up opportunities for innovation in communities across America.”
Driving toward zero emissions: EV charging and hydrogen fuelling
This historic funding will support 49 projects spanning 27 states, four federally recognised tribes, and the District of Columbia.
The deployment includes over 11,500 new public EV charging ports and a network of hydrogen and natural gas fuelling stations.
These efforts align with the ambitious US target of installing 500,000 public EV chargers by 2030 – a goal on track to be met ahead of schedule.
Currently, the US boasts over 206,000 publicly available EV chargers, with 38,000 added in 2024 alone. This surge is thanks to federal funding, tax incentives, state contributions, and private-sector investments.
Since 2021, the number of accessible chargers has more than doubled, showcasing the nation’s and industry’s commitment to fostering a clean energy economy.
Federal funding powering local communities
The $635m is allocated under two major initiatives: the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program and the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program.
This latest funding round dedicates $368m to 42 community-focused projects and $268m to seven corridor fast-charging projects.
The community projects emphasise equitable access, with 67% of funds directed to disadvantaged communities under the Justice40 Initiative.
These investments not only promote environmental benefits but also reduce transportation costs and healthcare expenses in areas heavily impacted by air pollution.
Acting Federal Highway Deputy Administrator Gloria Shepherd added: “FHWA is working to expand the nation’s EV charging network to guarantee that every American can reliably and accessibly fuel their trips, no matter where they live.
“The grants announced today will continue this important work by investing in alternative fuelling infrastructure in communities, creating economic opportunities, and advancing equity in EV charging by ensuring all Americans can share the benefits of an electrified future.”
Community success stories
- Cherokee Nation, Oklahoma: A $10.7m grant will fund 112 public EV charging ports at 12 strategic community locations, including parks and health centres. This initiative aligns with the Cherokee Nation’s clean energy goals and ensures nearly all reservation residents are within 25 miles of a charger.
- Troy, Alabama: With $724,912 in funding, Troy will install ten new EV charging stations across key sites, including a hospital, university, and sports complex. This project bridges gaps in the local charging network, boosts EV adoption, and supports economic growth by attracting more drivers to US Highway 231.
Corridor expansion highlights
- Port of Houston, Texas: A $24.8m grant will establish a state-of-the-art hydrogen fuelling station for heavy-duty trucks in Bayport. The facility will feature high-capacity throughput and public accessibility, advancing national strategies for decarbonising transportation and promoting clean hydrogen use.
- Mid-Atlantic Corridor Initiative: Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and West Virginia will share $18.6m to install six fast public EV charging stations along the I-81 and I-78 corridors. This network supports local fleet operations while connecting regional freight routes with alternative fuelling infrastructure.
Enhancing US clean transport infrastructure
The FHWA’s investments in public EV charging and hydrogen fuelling are paving the way for a sustainable transportation system.
By targeting disadvantaged communities, these initiatives not only address equity concerns but also create good-paying jobs and stimulate local economies.
Moreover, the development of hydrogen fuelling infrastructure complements efforts to decarbonise freight transportation.
This move supports the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy and accelerates the adoption of medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles, reducing freight-related emissions and improving air quality in communities affected by diesel pollution.
As the US continues to lead in public EV charging and hydrogen fuelling infrastructure, these investments are not just steps toward meeting climate goals—they’re a leap towards a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable future for all.
