New York State is doubling down on its commitment to electric vehicle adoption with a new $28.5 million investment in fast-charging infrastructure. Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced this funding, sourced from the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, to expand the availability of reliable EV fast chargers along major travel corridors south of Interstate 84. This initiative aims to alleviate range anxiety and encourage more New Yorkers to switch to electric vehicles.
Downstate DCFC Program: Expanding Charging Access
This second round of NEVI funding creates the Downstate Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) program. Administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) in partnership with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), the program will provide funds to qualified EV infrastructure developers. The goal? To install and operate DCFC stations at strategic locations along Federal Highway Administration-designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs).
These new charging stations will adhere to strict federal requirements:
- Proximity to Highways: Stations must be located within one travel mile of an AFC exit.
- 24/7 Public Accessibility: Charging must be available to the public around the clock.
- Simultaneous Charging Capacity: Each station must accommodate at least four EVs simultaneously.
- Fast Charging Speeds: Charging speeds must reach at least 150 kilowatts per vehicle.
- Uptime Requirements: Stations must maintain a high percentage of operational uptime.
Furthermore, proposals that prioritize closing gaps between existing and planned charging stations, offer amenities like restrooms and food, or feature multiple charging connectors (CCS and J3400) will receive priority consideration.
Eligible Travel Corridors
The program targets specific AFCs south of I-84, including:
- Interstate 87 (south of I-84)
- Interstate 95
- Interstate 278
- Interstate 287
- Interstate 495
- Interstate 678
- Interstate 684 (south of I-84)
- New York 17 (south of I-84)
- New York 25
- New York 27
Moving Towards a Cleaner Transportation Future
“This critical federal NEVI funding reinforces New York State’s leadership in investing in a statewide network of EV fast chargers, particularly in heavily trafficked downstate areas,” Governor Hochul stated. She emphasized the importance of accessible and reliable charging in encouraging EV adoption, ultimately contributing to reduced pollution, cleaner air, and improved public health.
This initiative builds upon previous efforts, including a $21 million investment in September for Upstate NEVI DCFC expansion. New York was also among the first states to open a NEVI-funded DCFC site in December 2023, with four additional locations opening in 2024. More NEVI-funded sites are expected by the end of next year.
NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris highlighted the importance of matching federal funding with private sector expertise to build a robust charging network.
NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez stressed the need for reliable charging infrastructure to support EV users on downstate highways, reinforcing New York’s commitment to sustainable transportation.
Additional Funding and Initiatives
This new funding complements other significant investments in New York’s EV ecosystem:
- Over 100 new EV fast chargers are planned for New York City.
- EV purchases in New York have increased dramatically, rising 660% in the last five years.
- The state currently boasts over 15,500 chargers at more than 4,500 public locations.
- New York received a $15 million Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program Grant for smaller cities, state parks, and tourist destinations.
- The state also secured $13 million through the Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program to repair or replace outdated charging ports.
These efforts support New York’s ambitious climate goals, including the mandate for all new passenger cars and trucks sold to be zero-emission by 2035.
Application Details
Proposals for the Downstate NEVI DCFC program are due by 3 p.m. ET on March 18. Detailed eligibility rules and evaluation criteria are available on NYSERDA’s website. NYSERDA will also host webinars on January 15 (11 a.m. to 12 p.m.) and February 12 (3 p.m. to 4 p.m.) to provide further information.
Source: Governor Kathy Hochul
