WASHINGTON: The Trump administration has paused a $5 billion federal program supporting electric vehicle charging infrastructure along highways. A Department of Transportation (DOT) memo confirmed the suspension, impacting states’ plans and funding allocations.
Funding Freeze
The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, established under Biden’s infrastructure law, is now on hold. States had previously received approval to develop EV charging networks using federal grants. The memo states that new guidance will be issued by the spring.
Until then, states cannot access grant money intended for EV charger installations. However, the DOT memo assures that financial commitments already made will be reimbursed.
Uncertain Future
Clean energy advocates warn that this suspension brings confusion and financial risk to many states and companies. Billions of dollars are now in limbo, delaying critical infrastructure expansion.
Ryan Gallentine of Advanced Energy United urged states to continue their projects despite the federal pause. He emphasized that states are not required to stop work based on this announcement.
Political Shift
The NEVI program was a key part of Biden’s clean energy policy, promoting EV adoption through better charging access. It had bipartisan support when passed in 2021 but is now undergoing review under Trump’s administration.
The new administration aims to revise program guidelines before distributing funds. This move signals a shift in federal priorities regarding clean energy and transportation policy.
State Concerns
Many state officials worry about disruptions to planned EV charger installations. Some projects were already in progress when the freeze was announced. Without federal support, states must decide whether to pause or continue their initiatives independently.
Transportation departments now face delays in expanding EV infrastructure. This could impact long-term adoption rates for electric vehicles nationwide.
Industry Response
Automakers and energy companies have also expressed concern about the uncertainty. Many businesses invested in infrastructure projects expecting stable federal funding.
Clean energy groups stress the importance of continuing charger deployment despite federal delays. They argue that halting progress could slow EV adoption and weaken U.S. leadership in clean energy.
Looking Ahead
The administration has not yet specified what changes will be made to NEVI’s guidelines. More details are expected in the coming months.
For now, states and businesses must navigate an unclear path regarding EV infrastructure expansion.
