As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, the need for reliable charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly important. However, the current state of charging stations in the US leaves much to be desired, with drivers often facing difficulties in finding working chargers and dealing with slow charging times.
Challenges in the Current Charging Infrastructure
Many drivers have experienced issues with charging their EVs, such as level two chargers providing only 11 miles of range per hour, or having trouble finding a working fast charger. These problems highlight the need for consistent and well-maintained charging stations. Furthermore, consumers must adjust their mindset for long-distance travel, as charging an EV often requires a 20-minute stop or longer.
Developing Better EV Charging Infrastructure
Efforts are being made to improve the charging infrastructure for electric cars. For example, the city of Albany has been awarded a grant to install 28 level 2 electric charging ports at 14 stations, which can charge an EV battery five to seven times faster than a typical home-based charger. This project is funded through the DEC’s Municipal Zero Emissions program, and National Grid is working on payment methods for customers who may have EVs.
States Leading the Way in EV Adoption
Massachusetts, Vermont, and New York are the best-positioned states for drivers looking to switch to electric vehicles to save money. New York’s mandate that new cars must be zero-emission by 2035 is driving Albany’s endeavors to increase sustainability and combat climate change. National Grid is also working on projects to boost its electric transmission system, and Albany is implementing a 2022“Fleet Electrification Study” with city departments already replacing fossil-fuel vehicles with EVs.
White House Announces EV Acceleration Challenge
The White House is announcing public and private commitments to support America’s transition to electric vehicles (EV) under the EV Acceleration Challenge. President Biden’s goal is to have 50% of all new vehicle sales be electric by 2030. Electric vehicle sales have tripled and the number of publicly available charging ports has grown by over 40% since Biden took office. The Inflation Reduction Act adds and expands tax credits for purchases of new and used EVs, and provides incentives to electrify heavy-duty vehicles and support the installation of residential, commercial, and municipal EV charging infrastructure.