News release: EGLE offers grants of up to $70,000 for EV fast chargers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dec. 19, 2019
EGLE Media Office, EGLE-Assist@Michigan.gov, 517-284-9278
Lisa Thomas, Clean Energy Engineer, ThomasL17@Michigan.gov, 517-282-6646

EGLE offers grants of up to $70,000 for EV fast chargers

Public or private organizations can apply for up to $70,000 each toward the cost of installing direct current fast chargers for electric vehicles under a request for proposals (RFP) announced today by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

The rebates are aimed at encouraging the buildout of an EV fast charging network for automobiles and light-duty vehicles across the state. The goal of building out the state’s EV charging network is to improve air quality, reduce vehicle emissions, and protect public health and the environment.

The grants are part of the more than $9.7 million allocated to Michigan from the Volkswagen diesel emissions settlement. Successful applicants can use their allocation for charger site preparation, equipment installation, networking fees, and signage. Applicants must be enrolled in a utility-sponsored charging program in the area where a charger is proposed to be installed. The EGLE grants are expected to cover up to a third of the total project costs with the host site and utility each also contributing a third.

“We’re seeing fundamental changes in the transportation sector in Michigan with the move toward electric vehicles,” said Jack Schinderle, director of EGLE’s Materials Management Division. “Our grants – along with funding from our utility partners and host sites – will continue to expand the support network needed for a seamless EV user experience across our state.”

Any public or private organization in Michigan, or those outside of Michigan that have demonstrated significant experience in installing and maintaining EV charging stations and have a significant presence in Michigan, are eligible to apply for grants. The RFP lists 75 eligible locations for chargers and proposed projects must be within five miles of those locations.

Grant applications must be submitted online. Funding will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis until all the money has been allocated. For further information, contact the Environmental Assistance Center at 800-662-9278 or check the Michigan Fuel Transformation website for more information.

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