The Federal Highway Administration approved the state’s Electric Vehicle infrastructure plan which will result in $73 million in federal funding over the next five years.
Louisiana was one of the first states to submit and be approved. Louisiana Transportation Secretary Shawn Willson, says this money will be distributed to private companies that will own, install, and operate EV charging stations.
“The green light has been given for us to make the grant awards, and we expect to start soliciting those grants as of early next year, and then make those awards depending on those plans meeting the requirements,” said Willson.
The state won’t own the infrastructure but will be responsible for inspections. Willson says they expect private sectors to be responsive.
“We’re going to monitor them to make sure they meet our standards for operation with maintenance and ensuring they’re accessible, and they meet all the requirements in the revision of the grant. We’re excited to be able to do that,” said Willson.
Willson says Louisiana’s EV charging network is relatively low compared to our neighboring states.
“It’s going to be a competitive opportunity, but they have to be accessible to the public 24/7,” said Willson
Funds are estimated to disburse by summer 2023.
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