Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded nearly $1 million to make it more convenient for electric-vehicle drivers to charge their vehicles in Alabama.
Gov. Ivey awarded three grants from funds remaining from Alabama’s portion of the nationwide Volkswagen settlement plan for electric charging stations at businesses and public venues in three locations, all in east Alabama.
“As the automotive industry, including manufacturers who call Alabama home, shift production toward electric vehicles, Alabama has made strides in supporting increased charging stations along our travel corridors,” Ivey said. “We will continue that progress as more vehicles, including many produced here in Alabama, are powered by electricity.”
Including these awards, Ivey has awarded a total of $8.2 million from state funds and VW settlement funds to support chargers at 44 locations. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the funds, including these awards.
Last week, ADECA opened the application period for the state’s portion of the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program, which will first focus on charging stations along the interstates. Other funds, including the grants announced today, are focused on other well-traveled roads and highways in the state. The VW settlement arose from an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regarding VW’s violation of the federal Clean Air Act. Alabama was among states receiving settlement funds.
“Having plentiful and conveniently located electric vehicle charging stations ensures that those who choose to own electric vehicles will know they have places to recharge their vehicles,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “It also creates benefits in commerce by giving EV owners who are traveling longer distances a place to recharge their vehicles and grab a bite to eat or explore a community while traveling.”
Charging stations run the gamut from fast to medium charging times, resulting in a difference of costs. In addition, some charging stations can charge several vehicles simultaneously causing another variance in the cost of the stations.
$77,818 was awarded to Ira Phillips Inc. to install three charging stations at the Venue at Coosa Landing Event Center, 201 George Wallace Dr. in Gadsden. The company is supplying a match of $41,940.