POLITICO Energy Why America’s EV charging network is in limbo
Feb 18, 2025
James Bikales, a POLITICO reporter covering energy, sheds light on the turmoil caused by the Trump administration's freeze on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program. States are left reeling, grappling with differing responses and uncertainty over EV charging development. The conversation dives into how this policy change affects transportation funding, while congressional reactions reveal a sharply divided political landscape. Discover the implications for the future of electric vehicles and state efforts amidst the chaos.
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Varied State Responses
- States are responding differently to the NEVI program pause.
- Some have completely paused, while others continue developing already-announced stations.
DOT Clarification
- The Department of Transportation clarified that states can continue to use the $470 million already obligated.
- This represents about 14% of the total NEVI funds.
Breaking Precedent
- The Trump administration's pause on the NEVI program breaks federal precedent.
- Formula grant programs, unlike discretionary ones, are typically not paused like this.