Last updated: January 13, 2025
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular, and with that comes the need for more charging stations. Arkansas is participating in the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, which is part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The goal of the program is to create a network of 500,000 EV charging stations across the country by 2030, including a significant number in Arkansas.
NEVI Formula program overview
The NEVI program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to expand EV charging infrastructure along federally designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFC). These corridors are key highways that will have charging stations to ensure drivers can travel without worrying about charging their EVs.
In Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) will oversee the implementation of the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment (EVID) Plan, which includes issuing Requests for Proposals (RFPs), evaluating projects, and selecting entities to install charging stations.
Funding and financial structure
The NEVI program will fund up to 80% of the costs for eligible projects, with the remaining 20% being covered by the awardee. The funding can be used for preconstruction activities, equipment installation, maintenance, and network connection. ARDOT will retain a portion of the funding for state administrative costs, and awardees will be required to cover these costs.
Requirements for charging stations
EV charging stations funded by the NEVI program must meet the following criteria:
- Location: Stations must be along designated AFCs or at publicly accessible locations if the AFCs in Arkansas are fully built out.
- Capacity: Stations should be able to charge multiple vehicles at once and be open to both public and commercial vehicles.
- Data Sharing: Charging stations must share data on their usage and availability with ARDOT.
These guidelines ensure that the infrastructure meets the needs of users and is functional for long-term use.
Selection process
Projects will be selected through a competitive procurement process. ARDOT will review proposals based on specific criteria such as feasibility, alignment with the state’s goals, and the proposer’s qualifications. Once selected, the awardee will sign an agreement with ARDOT to begin implementation.
How to Apply
Interested parties can apply through a competitive procurement process. The application deadlines and relevant steps are as follows:
- Application Deadline: The deadline to submit proposals is March 19, 2025, at 4 p.m. Central Daylight Time.
- Information Sessions: ARDOT will hold virtual information sessions on the following dates to provide more details on program requirements and the application process: January 13, 2025 and January 15, 2025
Registration details for the information sessions can be found on the ARDOT NEVI website.
To submit proposals, applicants should visit the ARDOT NEVI Program page and follow the instructions for the Request for Proposals (RFP) submission.
Conclusion
Arkansas is moving forward with the NEVI Formula Program to expand its EV charging network. The program will help meet the growing demand for EV infrastructure and support the transition to cleaner energy. For more information on the NEVI program and ARDOT’s guidelines, visit the ARDOT NEVI Program page or review the program guidelines.
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