Southern Wisconsin Times

The State of Wisconsin has received approval from the U.S. Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to establish a network of electric vehicle charging stations across the state. The initiative, known as the Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (WEVI) program, is part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program and FHWA. This program aims to create a network of chargers along major interstates and federal highway systems, providing a convenient charging infrastructure for electric vehicle owners.

To kickstart the implementation of the WEVI program, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation has issued a Request for Proposals (RFPs) to select grant recipients for charging stations in the state. The grants are open to the private sector and cover a wide range of expenses, including site preparation, utility upgrades, charger purchase and installation, as well as five years of operating and maintenance costs.

In Rock County, there are three priority locations that have been identified for the placement of NEVI compliant chargers. These locations are the 39/90 exit at Milton and Humes, the 39/90 exit at Racine Street, and the 39/90 exit at Edgerton and the Rock River. Based on the WEVI plan, it is highly likely that one of these locations will receive funding for the installation of electric vehicle chargers.

Private businesses and nonprofits are encouraged to apply for the WEVI Program Request for Proposals (RFP) by submitting their applications before the deadline of 5:00 p.m. Central Standard Time on Monday, April 1, 2024. It is important to note that applications submitted after this deadline will not be considered.

According to the WEVI Program, the RFP application packet was made public on Friday, January 12. Interested parties can access the RFP document and find more information about the program and updates on the WisDOT Electrification page.

With the implementation of the WEVI program, Wisconsin is taking a significant step towards promoting the adoption of electric vehicles and supporting the growth of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure. By providing funding for charging stations, the state aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for electric vehicle owners, ultimately encouraging more people to choose electric vehicles as a sustainable transportation option.

As the transition to electric vehicles continues to gain momentum, the establishment of charging stations at key locations, such as those in Janesville and Rock County, will play a crucial role in facilitating longer journeys and ensuring a seamless charging experience for electric vehicle users. With the availability of these charging stations, electric vehicle owners will have the peace of mind knowing that they can easily recharge their vehicles, making electric vehicles a viable and convenient choice for transportation.

In conclusion, the approval of federal grants for the installation of electric vehicle charging stations in Janesville and Rock County is a significant development for the state of Wisconsin. The WEVI program, funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program and FHWA, aims to create a network of chargers across the state, providing a convenient and accessible charging infrastructure for electric vehicle owners. The selection process for grant recipients is underway, and private businesses and nonprofits are encouraged to apply before the deadline. With the implementation of this program, Wisconsin is taking a proactive approach in promoting electric vehicle adoption and supporting the growth of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure.