Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law established the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, several EV charging stations have opened across Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Hawaii, and Maine. Here are the key best practices to accelerate NEVI deployments effectively.

Remove Bonds and Letters of Credit Requirements

• Eliminate LOCs and bonds from applications as they deter potential applicants
• Streamline the RFP process to speed up review times
• Reduce costs for applicants to attract a broader application pool
• Establish clear development milestones instead
• Follow Texas DOT's example: no bonds/LOCs and simplified cost estimates

Deploy Funding Strategically

• Publish and maintain predictable solicitation schedules
• Allow at least 90 days for submission completion
• Follow Ohio and Pennsylvania's model of multiple grant solicitations
• Establish clear timelines and processes on websites
• Maintain consistency in scheduling

Share Location Information Effectively

• Provide eligible locations with GIS/map files
• Allow flexibility in location requirements while maintaining standards
• Include basic requirements like 24/7 access
• Consider placement within one-mile driving distance of alternative fuel corridors
• Avoid overly restrictive location eligibility that could limit applicant pools

Additional Best Practices

• Use transparent scoring rubrics for application evaluation
• Request single-site applications instead of multiple sites
• Streamline utility coordination processes
• Maintain clear communication channels with applicants
• Monitor project progress effectively

These practices help ensure successful NEVI program implementation while maximizing deployment efficiency and effectiveness across states.

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