Electrifying Maine’s Roads: Exploring Funding Opportunities

Last updated: January 10, 2024

In the realm of sustainable transportation, Maine is emerging as a shining example of proactive change. As part of its ongoing commitment to expand the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the availability of EV charging infrastructure, the state’s trust Efficiency Maine has issued several Requests for Proposals (RFP) to support the development of the local EV charging infrastructure.

RFP for Electric Vehicle Fast Chargers

Efficiency Maine Trust has released Request for Proposals (RFP) EM-011-2024, dated December 11, 2023, inviting qualified bidders or teams to participate in hosting, purchasing, installing, and operating public DC “fast chargers” (DCFC) for electric vehicles (EV) at popular destinations across Maine. Aligned with Maine’s Updated Plan for EV Infrastructure Deployment (Maine’s NEVI Plan), as revised by the Maine Department of Transportation in August 2023, the RFP encompasses specific areas outlined in the plan. The Trust is open to bids catering to a single location or those proposing to serve multiple locations.

Key milestones include the deadline for proposals on March 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (US), with an anticipated award date of May 14, 2024, and a projected contract start date of June 14, 2024. For further details, interested parties can participate in a Bidders’ Informational Webinar scheduled for February 20, 2024.

The anticipated term of the contracts is five (5) years from the execution of a contract between the Trust and the awardee(s). The Trust’s total budget available for both rounds of this RFP comprises approximately $2,800,000 of Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan (MJRP) funds for capital incentives and approximately $500,000 of New England Clean Energy Connect (NECEC) funds for demand charge incentives.

The establishment of a network of public DCFC in Maine is complemented by three related initiatives being implemented by the Trust:

1. A campaign to expand the availability of Level 2 chargers at workplaces, multi-unit dwellings, businesses, and government-owned lots with a goal of adding more than 2,000 units over four to five years;
2. A $13.5 million, multi-year program offering rebates for battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles; and
3. A comprehensive education and outreach campaign to inform Mainers about various aspects of EV ownership.

Through this RFP, the Trust will use funds from the MJRP/ARPA and the NECEC Settlement to award one or more contracts to bidders (individual companies or teams) to construct and operate high-speed chargers at select Maine destinations.

Efficiency Maine’s Commitment to EVs and Charging Infrastructure

The Trust’s dedication to promoting EV adoption and bolstering charging infrastructure is the cornerstone of Maine’s sustainable transportation initiatives. With a focus on instant rebates for eligible vehicles and mail-in rebates for EVs purchased directly from manufacturers, the Trust’s programs are designed to make the transition to electric mobility more accessible and appealing.

Electric Vehicle Rebate Support Services

The Trust’s dedication to promoting EV adoption and bolstering charging infrastructure is the cornerstone of Maine’s sustainable transportation initiatives. With a focus on instant rebates for eligible vehicles and mail-in rebates for EVs purchased directly from manufacturers, the Trust’s programs are designed to make the transition to electric mobility more accessible and appealing.

The Trust recognizes the importance of efficient program delivery to maximize the impact of its initiatives. As such, the Trust seeks specific qualities in its delivery teams and program designs. These qualities include:

• Customer Service: While program management is handled by Trust staff, delivery teams play a crucial role in providing outstanding customer service. Timely communication, efficient processing of participant project documents, and collaboration with program participants and EV dealers are all essential components for achieving the best outcomes.
• Efficient Delivery: With a priority on funding customer incentives and minimizing program delivery costs, the Trust encourages delivery teams to avoid overly complex programs or strategies that could prove administratively intensive.
• Simplicity: The Trust values simplicity in team organization, preferring teams with logical roles and experience working together. Unnecessary complexity can hinder program efficiency and success.

At the heart of this RFP lies the Trust’s EV Rebate Program, which is focused on accelerating the adoption of EVs in Maine. The program offers instant rebates through participating car dealers and mail-in rebates for vehicles purchased directly from manufacturers. The Trust’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its provision of enhanced incentives for qualified low- and moderate-income residents, governmental entities, tribal governments, and select non-profits.

As the September 21, 2023, deadline for the RFP approaches, the stage is set for dynamic collaboration between the Trust and qualified entities. By responding to this RFP, organizations can be part of Maine’s progressive push toward sustainable transportation. With the Trust’s anticipation of an annual budget for program support under $350,000, the emphasis on cost-effectiveness aligns with Maine’s commitment to responsible and impactful investments.

Funding Opportunities For DC Fast Charging Stations 

The Efficiency Maine Trust is inviting qualified bidders to participate in RFP EM-010-2024 for the installation and operation of DC Fast Charging Stations (DCFC) for electric vehicles along designated “Alternative Fuel Corridors” in Maine. The initiative, funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), aims to strategically deploy EV charging infrastructure. The specific target areas for this RFP include segments of Interstate 295, US Route 1A, Interstate 95, US Route 2, and US Route 302, aligning with Maine’s NEVI Plan. Bidders can propose to serve one or multiple locations in accordance with Maine’s Updated Plan for EV Infrastructure Deployment. Proposals are due by January 16, 2024.

For a comprehensive understanding of current funding opportunities, please visit the Trust’s website.

Maine’s  Greener Future Beckons  

Maine’s RFP for Electric Vehicle Rebate Support Services is a call to action for entities ready to embrace sustainable change. By participating, organizations are not only contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation landscape but also becoming integral players in Maine’s mission to shape a brighter and more eco-friendly future.