Pennsylvania has emerged as a frontrunner in building out electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, swiftly acting on the opportunities presented by the infrastructure bill. The cooperative effort between state transportation departments and the federal Department of Transportation (DOT) is integral for rolling out these initiatives. States are tasked with submitting an EV charging plan, securing approval, obtaining funding, and ultimately selecting contractors through a proposal and bidding process to materialize these charging stations.
The Bureaucratic Challenge in EV Infrastructure
Despite Pennsylvania’s progress, many states are encountering delays in launching their year one projects due to lengthy bureaucratic procedures. In contrast to typical highway developments, EV charging projects possess an urgency that differs from the slow-paced nature of constructing bridges and roads. However, Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has expedited the process, already moving into the second year of funding and announcing 29 new projects across 19 counties to bridge the infrastructure gaps identified from the first year’s plan.
PennDOT’s Strategic Planning
There are specific requirements for these EV charging stations, including the capability to support a minimum of 150 kW output for at least four vehicles simultaneously. The goal is to position these stations no more than 50 miles apart, with the exception of areas constrained by power availability or other logistical challenges. With an additional $20 million from a total of $171.5 million earmarked for the state, PennDOT is prioritizing the rapid deployment of these crucial projects, aligning Pennsylvania with the vision of Governor Shapiro and Secretary Carroll for a future of accessible and reliable EV infrastructure.
After two rounds of funding, 83 projects have been slated to cover 41 counties, with the state moving quickly onto the third batch to maintain momentum in enhancing its alternative fuel corridors.
Year Two Funding Breakdown by County
Below is a breakdown of county-specific funding allocations for the second round, highlighting locations and companies entrusted with the task of developing the EV charging stations:
- Adams County: eCAMION USA, Inc. receives $652,736
- Allegheny County: EVgo Services, LLC is allocated $768,310
- Chester County: Multiple projects including CarCharge, LLC and Wawa, Inc.
- Dauphin County: Applegreen Electric PA, LLC granted $650,000
- Erie County: Blink Network, LLC receives $851,772, and many more.
Highlighting Key Players and Locations
Wawa is a recurring name in the list, with the chain slated to host at least six of the 20 stations, creating a synergy between their customer-loved services and the new EV infrastructure. Tesla enthusiasts will celebrate the inclusion of two Supercharger locations, funded as part of this round. Additionally, Francis Energy, showing improved service in other states, is expected to make a positive impression in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Turnpike also stands out, with five more service plazas set to gain EV chargers, taking advantage of the fewer restrictions compared to interstate highways.
As Pennsylvania strides forward, the landscape for electric vehicles in the state looks increasingly promising, setting the pace for an eco-conscious shift in transportation and a new chapter in infrastructure efficiency.
