Ohio Opens First Infrastructure Bill (NEVI) Station

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When it comes to government, almost nothing happens fast. It can take ages just for a spending bill to get through Congress, but then a much longer clock often starts running. In the case of the Infrastructure Law, a joint office between DOT and DOE had to be established, which then had to come up with rules based on the law. Then, the states were invited to create plans for charging networks that put at least four 150 kW or greater stations along major highways, with gaps between the stations of no more than 50 miles (with some exceptions).

These plans then had to be approved by the joint office and then returned to the states for implementation. States had to then put in requests for vendors, choose sites, approve bids, and then provide funding. Then, the long process of station construction and getting utilities to provide power started.

It’s now been two years, and most states are still somewhere in the process. But, some states moved a lot faster than others. Ohio ended up beating everyone to the punch, with the first station under the Infrastructure Law’s NEVI program recently going live.

Located at the Pilot Travel Center along Interstate 70 at U.S. Route 42 in Madison County, west of Columbus, you can find this newest station. It’s equipped with fast chargers installed by EVgo. Capable of providing up to 350 kW when charging a single vehicle. When four vehicles are charging simultaneously, each port will receive up to 175 kW.

“Any industry that focuses on innovations for the future is a priority for Ohio,” said Governor DeWine. “Electric vehicles are the future of transportation, and we want drivers in Ohio to have access to this technology today.”

This milestone represents the latest in a series of significant advancements in the field of electric vehicles that Ohio’s governor bragged about in a press release. Ohio took the lead as the first state in the nation to issue a request for charging station proposals last year. This strategic move positioned Ohio ahead of other states in acquiring sought-after equipment and specialized technicians to install these stations.

Demonstrating an ongoing commitment to providing Ohioans with an advantage in the transition to electric vehicles, Ohio also became the first state in the country to announce the future sites of its initial round of EV charging stations. Then, in October, Ohio achieved another first by breaking ground on these stations.

“For years, our team has trailblazed the expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure, becoming a model for other states implementing the NEVI program,” said ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks. “America’s first new charging station puts us one step closer to making travel easier for EV drivers.”

Construction is expected to begin soon on two dozen more fast charging stations funded by NEVI across the state. All chargers installed as part of the first round are anticipated to be operational by the end of 2024.

Like all other states, more stations will follow in subsequent years. The focus is first on interstate highways, followed by other U.S. highways and other state routes that are deemed essential by the federal government through the National Highway System.

Featured image by EVgo.