What's Happening?
Michigan has allocated $1.84 million in grants to install 201 electric vehicle charging stations at apartment complexes. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) announced
the awards on November 5, targeting 31 multifamily properties where residents typically lack at-home EV charging options. The funding is part of the state's Clean Fuel and Charging Infrastructure (CFCI) Program, initiated in 2024 with a $30 million appropriation. Forty percent of the funds are reserved for disadvantaged communities. The chargers will be installed in metro Detroit suburbs and other cities like Kalamazoo, Flint, and Lansing. The grants range from $20,000 to $98,000 per site, supporting the installation of Level 2 chargers, which take 4 to 8 hours to charge a standard EV battery.
Why It's Important?
The initiative is crucial for Michigan's MI Healthy Climate Plan, which aims to register two million EVs and deploy 100,000 EV chargers by 2030. The state is currently behind these targets, and the grants are a step towards expanding EV infrastructure. This development supports the growth of the EV market, which has slowed due to shifts towards hybrids and potential federal tax credit repeals. The increased availability of charging stations is expected to facilitate EV adoption, particularly in disadvantaged communities, promoting environmental benefits and reducing air pollution.
What's Next?
A new request for proposals will make an additional $5 million available for multifamily charging projects, with grants capped at $300,000 per site. This continued investment in EV infrastructure is expected to support Michigan's climate goals and enhance accessibility for residents in multifamily dwellings. The state's efforts to expand EV charging infrastructure will likely influence similar initiatives in other regions, contributing to broader environmental and economic impacts.
