Madison, WI - On March 20, 2024, Governor Tony Evers signed two bipartisan bills into law that will create a network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along the state's interstate highways and major highways. The bills, Assembly Bill 954 and Senate Bill 746, create the Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (WEVIP) and make changes to state law to allow Wisconsin to access nearly $80 million in federal funding to help build a statewide network of fast charging stations.

Who will build the charging stations?

Private businesses will be responsible for building and operating the charging stations. The Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (WEVIP) will provide grants to businesses to help them cover the cost of construction.

Where will the money come from?

Funding will come from a combination of state and federal funds. Wisconsin is expected to receive nearly $80 million in funding from the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program over the next five years.

When will the charging stations be built?

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) expects to begin accepting applications for WEVIP grants in the coming months. The first EV charging stations funded by WEVIP are expected to be built in 2025.

What are the benefits of these bills?

The charging station network will make it easier for Wisconsinites to drive electric vehicles.

The network will help reduce the state's reliance on fossil fuels.

It will create jobs in the clean energy sector.

The network will improve air quality in Wisconsin.

Is this a sign that electric vehicles are the future?

This could be a major step forward for the development of electric vehicles. As the charging network becomes more widespread, electric vehicles are likely to become more popular.