Wisconsin Expands Electric Vehicle Charging Network with $23 Million Grant Initiative
In a significant move to support electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, Wisconsin has granted over $23 million to help businesses across the state build more than 50 new EV charging stations. The funding, announced in May 2024 by Governor Tony Evers, aims to bolster the charging network, reduce “range anxiety,” and increase access to EV charging in both urban and rural areas.
Addressing “Range Anxiety” and Building Infrastructure
For EV drivers like John Roach, who frequently commutes between Madison and northern Wisconsin, “range anxiety”—the fear of running out of power without a charging station nearby—is a common concern. Roach has had to rely on apps and local knowledge to find charging stations, which are often in limited supply. This grant initiative will expand the state’s network of chargers, making travel more convenient for EV owners and potentially reducing the hesitation some have about switching to electric vehicles.
Fifty-three new charging stations will be installed with the help of $23.3 million in federal grants, primarily funded through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program. With about $55 million left in NEVI funding, Wisconsin has the potential for more projects over the next five years, continuing to grow its EV infrastructure.
Empowering Businesses and Communities
The grants will benefit a wide range of businesses, from gas stations to restaurants, hotels, and even tribal communities. Notably, 24 Kwik Trip locations received about $8.1 million to install chargers, with additional grants awarded to businesses in rural areas, including grocery stores, truck stops, and family-owned shops.
Mandeep Dhillon, who owns a convenience store in Armstrong Creek, hopes that the installation of EV chargers will encourage locals to consider EV ownership. While most of his EV customers are tourists visiting for outdoor activities, Dhillon believes that better access to chargers could drive more widespread adoption in rural areas.
This initiative is especially focused on creating an “Alternative Fuel Corridor” across Wisconsin, ensuring that both rural and urban communities benefit from expanded EV infrastructure. As Emma Heins from the Electrification Coalition explains, the project is designed to bridge the gap between areas that have established EV infrastructure, like Madison and Milwaukee, and those that don’t. The goal is to make it easier for people to own and operate electric vehicles, even in more remote parts of the state.
Competition Driving Expansion
Businesses in highly trafficked areas are also taking advantage of the grants to stay competitive. Daniel Ratajczyk, manager of the Pine Cone Travel Plaza in Johnson Creek, applied for a grant to install 4-8 chargers at his truck stop and diner. He recognizes the importance of offering charging services, especially as neighboring businesses like Kwik Trip already have chargers installed. By providing this service, Ratajczyk hopes to attract more interstate travelers who can charge their vehicles while grabbing a meal.
Boosting Employment and Supporting the Local Economy
In addition to providing more charging options for EV drivers, the installation of new charging stations is expected to create jobs. Heins notes that federally funded chargers must meet strict operational standards, requiring a 97% uptime. This will necessitate a growing workforce of electricians, maintenance technicians, and service personnel, particularly in rural areas, to keep the chargers operational.
A Step Toward a Greener Future
For EV advocates like Roach, the expansion of Wisconsin’s charging network is a crucial step toward making electric vehicles more accessible and practical for everyday use. As the state continues to invest in EV infrastructure, it will help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and make electric vehicles a more viable option for residents in all corners of Wisconsin.
This investment in EV infrastructure mirrors other important developments in U.S. history, such as the interstate highway system or rural electrification in the early 20th century. By creating a more comprehensive network of EV chargers, Wisconsin is positioning itself for a greener future, one that makes it easier for residents and visitors alike to travel sustainably.
Click Here: Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan
Source: Wisconsin Independent
