CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A newly-published digital map shows the locations of the first batch of electric vehicle charging stations in North Carolina that will be funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI).
The map, published by the N.C. Department of Transportation, is aimed at helping those who want to apply for the federal NEVI funds to build and operate a network of charging stations. Each location on the map signifies an exit or a cluster of exits, near which the charging stations would go.
NCDOT’s statewide initiative senior engineer Paula Hemmer said the charging stations will help North Carolina both economically and in the state's efforts to advance "clean transportation."
“The map gives businesses an opportunity to determine where it would be economically feasible to build and operate EV charging stations," Hemmer said in a news release. "There are a lot of things to consider like whether a site is easily accessible to all travelers and a site’s proximity to amenities like restaurants and hotels.”
NCDOT received $109 million in federal NEVI funds for the development of the charging station network, and is aiming to issue a request for proposals in February for those who want to apply for funds in the first phase. Funds granted will reimburse businesses for project costs related to the charging stations.
The first phase of the project is centered around installing DC Fast Chargers along major highways, interstates, and alternative fuel corridors in the state. The initial locations identified for the first phase were chosen to help fill gaps where there are fewer electric vehicle charging stations.
Ultimately, Phase 1 charging stations are intended to be set every 50 miles along the "alternative fuel corridor" within a mile and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The charging system ports must be able to provide 150 kilowatts of direct current to four vehicles at once and must comply with permitting and zoning requirements.
The second phase will involve building out the fast chargers. The state is aiming to have the electric charging infrastructure built out over the next seven years.
On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced that $5.6 million in grants were awarded to the cities of Durham and Kings Mountain to continue building out the state's charging network. Kings Mountain will receive $822,000 to build 34 electric car charging ports at five public parking areas, all located less than a mile from Interstate 85 and U.S. Highway 74. Both highways are deemed key Alternative Fuel Corridors in the state. The stations will be located at city hall, in the central business district, at a public works facility, and at two parking lots near Exit 5 of I-85.
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