Alabama's EV Charging Station Expansion: 13 Winners Announced

On Monday, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) announced the first round winners of the Biden administration’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) federal grants. A total of 13 projects were selected for funding. Additionally, Bevill State Community College in Jasper received a $2.4 million grant to expand its HVAC Training Center to include EV charger installation and maintenance.

Overview of the NEVI Program

The NEVI program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, allocates $5 billion over five years to help US states build a network of EV charging stations. The program aims to place EV chargers along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors, which are roadways where EV drivers can expect to find charging stations. Each station must be located every 50 miles and within one travel mile of these corridors.

Alabama just announced its first 13 federally funded EV charging stations

 image credit given to FDOT

Requirements for EV Charging Stations

The NEVI program has specific requirements for the charging stations:

  • Each station must have at least four ports, capable of charging four EVs at 150 kilowatts (kW) each, with a total station power capacity of 600 kW or more.
  • The stations must be accessible to the public 24 hours a day and offer amenities like restrooms, food, beverages, and shelter.

Alabama's Commitment to EV Infrastructure

Governor Kay Ivey expressed the importance of these strategic EV charging stations. She highlighted the benefits not only for EV drivers but also for companies that produce electric vehicles in Alabama, which could lead to more high-paying jobs in the state. From 2022 to 2027, Alabama will receive $79 million in NEVI grants to support the development of DC fast charging stations. ADECA will administer these grants, covering 80% of the cost, with businesses covering the remaining 20%.

Location and Funding Details

Here is a detailed list of the 13 EV charging stations that will be developed in Alabama, including their locations and the allocated funding:

  1. Falkville: $768,782 to Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at 64 East Pike Road, off Interstate 65.
  2. Gadsden: $331,807 to Silver Comet Energy for four chargers at the RaceTrac Store, 1715 W. Grand Ave., near Interstate 59.
  3. Hamilton: $656,166 to Love’s Travel Stop & Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at Marion County Highway 35, adjacent to Interstate 22.
  4. Jasper: $788,921 to Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at 83 Carl Cannon Blvd., near Interstate 22.
  5. Heflin: $656,166 to Love’s Travel Stop & Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at 6647 Alabama Highway 46, adjacent to Interstate 20.
  6. Tuscaloosa-Cottondale: $581,200 to BP Products North America for three electric charging stations at Travel Centers of America Tuscaloosa, 3501 Buttermilk Road, near Interstate 20/59.
  7. Eutaw: $783,299 to Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at 7561 Mesopotamia Street, adjacent to Interstate 20/59.
  8. Clanton: $660,909 to Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at 300 Arby Drive, near Interstate 65.
  9. Montgomery: $581,200 to BP Products North America for three chargers at Travel Centers of America Montgomery, 980 West South Blvd., adjacent to Interstate 65.
  10. Fort Deposit: $759,024 to Priester Retail Stores Inc. for two dual-port chargers at 80 Bishop Bottom Road, adjacent to Interstate 65.
  11. Evergreen: $867,238 to Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at 16101 U.S. Highway 84, near Interstate 65.
  12. Atmore: $725,864 to Poarch Band of Creek Indians for two dual-port chargers at Creek Travel Plaza, 4740 Jack Springs Road, near Interstate 65.
  13. Irvington: $639,564 to Love’s Travel Stop & Country Stores for two dual-port chargers at 8400 County Farm Road, near Interstate 10.

Conclusion

The NEVI grants mark a significant step towards enhancing Alabama's EV infrastructure. These charging stations will not only support current EV drivers but also encourage more people to consider electric vehicles. With the combined efforts of ADECA and local businesses, Alabama is set to become a key player in the nation's transition to cleaner transportation.