- Rhode Island opened its first NEVI-funded ChargePoint EV charging stations at Warwick and Ashaway Park and Rides, providing charging every 50 miles along I-95.
- Rhode Island will receive $22.9 million in NEVI funding to expand EV charging infrastructure statewide.
- Rhode Island’s I-95 alternative fuel corridor is fully built out and certified.
Rhode Island has just opened its first NEVI-funded EV charging stations, powered by ChargePoint, at Warwick and Ashaway Park and Rides. This milestone means residents can now easily access reliable and affordable charging every 50 miles along I-95, meeting the state’s climate goals. With $22.9 million in NEVI funding over five years, Rhode Island plans to expand EV charging across the state, making it easier for everyone to drive electric.
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The Federal Highway Administration (FHA), in conjunction with the Joint Office, has certified that Rhode Island’s designated I-95 alternative fuel corridor (AFC) is now fully built out. This certification means that convenient, reliable, and affordable EV charging is available every 50 miles along this key route.
With this accomplishment, Rhode Island can now use its remaining NEVI funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to expand public EV charging infrastructure in other communities and corridors across the state.
“Rhode Island is leading the charge when it comes to quick and efficient deployment of convenient charging that helps residents and visitors get where they need to go, emission-free,” said Gabe Klein, Executive Director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation.
“These stations provide convenient and reliable charging along the full length of Rhode Island’s designated I-95 EV charging corridor, giving the state the flexibility to continue expanding its EV charging network along additional corridors and in communities so anyone can choose to ride or drive electric in the Ocean State.”
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation will receive a total of $22.9 million in funding under the NEVI program over the next five years. Earlier this year, Rhode Island conducted a survey to plan Phase 2 of its NEVI Roadmap. This phase focuses on expanding EV charging stations on public roads and other accessible areas.
The results of this survey are currently being analyzed to guide future investments, ensuring that everyone in Rhode Island has access to EV charging stations, no matter where they live, work, or play.
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But what does this mean for the average Rhode Islander? If you’re planning a road trip along I-95, in the past, the thought of finding a reliable EV charging station might have been daunting. Now, with charging stations every 50 miles, that worry is a thing of the past. This is a win for EV drivers, and a win for everyone who cares about reducing emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.
The significance of this achievement extends beyond Rhode Island. The Joint Office is working with all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico to ensure the success of the NEVI program. This initiative is a key part of the Biden administration’s vision for a clean energy future. NEVI is a focused effort to carefully plan and efficiently build the EV infrastructure we need for the future, and to make sure that all Americans, no matter where they live, have access to reliable EV charging stations.
In the words of Gabe Klein, “Rhode Island is leading the charge.” This statement highlights the state’s commitment to not only meet but exceed expectations in the deployment of EV charging infrastructure. The convenience and reliability of these new ChargePoint stations will undoubtedly encourage more residents and visitors to consider EVs, promoting a culture of sustainability and innovation.
With the first-in-the-nation certification of its fully built-out I-95 corridor, Rhode Island now has the opportunity to use its remaining NEVI funds to further enhance its EV charging network. This means more level 2 EV charging stations, more EV fast charging stations, and more opportunities for Rhode Islanders to make the switch to electric.
Rhode Island’s proactive approach serves as a model for other states. The successful deployment of these EV charging stations highlights the importance of strategic planning and community involvement in achieving our climate goals. By fully embracing the NEVI program and its potential, Rhode Island is keeping up with the transition to electric vehicles and setting a standard for others to follow.
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IMAGES: STATE OF RHODE ISLAND OFFICE OER
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