Last updated: June 5, 2024
Overview
The U.S. Department of Transportation, as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has introduced the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program. This visionary initiative is designed to drive the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging networks and alternative vehicle-fueling infrastructure nationwide. Through an allocation of $2.5 billion over five years, the program aims to bolster the growth of EV charging facilities and alternative vehicle-fueling projects in both urban and rural landscapes. Additionally, it prioritizes the development of these facilities along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs).
Funding details
The CFI Grants offer substantial financial support, divided into two categories: CFI Community Charging and CFI Corridor Charging, with $1.25 billion earmarked for each category.
- CFI Community Charging:
- Funding Amount: $1,250,000,000
- Grant Range: $500,000 – $15,000,000
- Program Frequency: Annual
- Funding Mechanism: Competitive Grant
- Recipients: State or political subdivision of a state, metropolitan planning organizations, local governments, special purpose districts or public authorities with a transportation function, tribes, and territories
- CFI Corridor Charging:
- Funding Amount: $1,250,000,000
- Grant Range: $1,000,000 – No maximum
- Program Frequency: Annual
- Funding Mechanism: Competitive Grant
- Recipients: Same as above
Eligibility criteria
Eligibility for both categories extends to various entities, including cities, counties, local governments, tribes, and territories. The grants cater to different types of installations:
- CFI Community Charging: These grants prioritize installations of EV charging and alternative fuel infrastructure in publicly accessible locations such as public roads, schools, parks, and parking facilities. Special emphasis is placed on rural areas, low- and moderate-income neighborhoods, and communities with limited private parking or high ratios of multiunit dwellings.
- CFI Corridor Charging: These grants support the deployment of EV charging and hydrogen, propane, and natural gas fueling infrastructure along designated alternative fuel corridors and communities.
Application process
Eligible entities can apply for CFI Grants through a competitive grant process. Detailed application guidelines, deadlines, and required documentation are provided through the official Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program resources. Applicants are encouraged to adhere to the stipulated submission timelines and ensure accurate completion of application forms.
- Application Deadline: August 28, 2024
- Reconsideration Requests: Previously unselected applicants can request reconsideration by July 1, 2024.
Key benefits and opportunities
Participation in the CFI Grants program offers a range of benefits and opportunities for EV charging network operators:
- Financial Support: Substantial financial assistance for the acquisition, installation, and operation of EV charging and alternative fueling infrastructure.
- Enhanced Visibility: Successful projects receive increased visibility, contributing to improved local and national reputation.
- Access to Resources: Grant recipients gain access to resources, expertise, and insights from government agencies and industry experts, aiding in the successful implementation of infrastructure projects.
- Partnerships and Collaborations: The program fosters collaboration opportunities with local governments, agencies, and private entities, enabling joint efforts to build a robust charging network.
New developments
In May 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a groundbreaking $1.3 billion funding opportunity aimed at expanding the national EV charging network. This historic investment, the largest single grant for EV charging in U.S. history, is poised to significantly boost public and private investment in clean transportation across urban and rural communities.
The CFI program is divided into two key categories:
- Community Charging and Fueling Grants: Designed to deploy publicly accessible EV charging infrastructure and alternative fueling options, such as hydrogen, propane, and natural gas, in both urban and rural areas.
- Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC) Grants: Focused on installing EV charging and alternative fueling infrastructure along designated highway corridors.
A notable change in this round of funding is the extension of the maximum distance from an AFC for EV charging projects from one mile to five miles, aligning with other CFI-eligible fuels. This extension aims to better connect corridors to communities, increase flexibility for developers, and help utilities manage new loads on the grid.
This initiative represents a significant step toward achieving a national network of 500,000 public EV charging stations and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030.
For further information and assistance, applicants can refer to official program guidelines and FAQs.
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