Updated NEVI regulations appear to enable individual states to carry forward electric vehicle charging initiatives
US Department of Transportation Streamlines National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program
The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) has unveiled revised guidance for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, aiming to expedite the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the country.
The new policy, jointly released by the DOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in August 2025, significantly streamlines the program by reducing requirements and providing states more flexibility. This interim final guidance supersedes prior policies, except where statutory language applies, and is effective immediately while pending public comment.
Key changes from the original program conditions include minimized state plan content requirements, a simplified and faster state plan approval process, reduced community engagement and consultation mandates, greater flexibility for states in determining appropriate distances between charging stations, minimized requirements for states to integrate electric grid considerations and renewable energy goals, and the elimination of requirements to address consumer protections, emergency evacuation plans, environmental siting, resilience, and terrain considerations.
The revised guidance also expands the use of funds beyond just designated EV Alternative Fuel Corridors to statewide public roads, encouraging deployment at locations where station owners also serve as site hosts. This is intended to reduce "red tape," speed up EV charger build-out, and ensure federal resources are used efficiently, reflecting the current administration's policy priorities emphasizing consumer choice and less regulatory burden.
States are required to submit their updated EV Infrastructure Deployment Plans within 30 days of the guidance’s effective date (August 13, 2025), with public comments accepted through August 27, 2025.
In February, the DOT suspended the NEVI Formula Program and rescinded prior approval of states' spending plans. However, this revised guidance marks a clear shift from the original, more prescriptive conditions towards a more flexible, expedited approach to expanding EV charging nationwide.
The NEVI Formula Program was established as part of the Inflation Reduction Act and provides $5 billion in funding for states to build EV charging infrastructure. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy stated that the program will use federal resources efficiently and respect Congress's will regarding green energy subsidies.
In June, a federal judge temporarily blocked the US administration from withholding funds awarded to 14 states under the NEVI Formula Program. The revised guidance is expected to clear the way for these projects to proceed, accelerating the deployment of EV charging infrastructure across the United States.
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