Transportation Electrification: Federal Investment Principles for a Faster, Equitable, Job-Creating EV Future

Transportation Electrification: Federal Investment Principles for a Faster, Equitable, Job-Creating EV Future

By Michael Anderson

December 9, 2024 at 05:47 AM

Transportation electrification is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth. Here are six essential principles for effective federal investment in EV infrastructure:

Complementary Policy Support

Federal policies must simultaneously support both EV sales and charging infrastructure development. This includes:

  • Extending and reforming the 30D vehicle tax credit
  • Expanding the 30C alternative refueling property tax credit
  • Pairing infrastructure investments with consumer incentives

State-Level Implementation

Leverage existing state energy offices to administer funds and manage programs because they:

  • Have proven success with clean energy programs
  • Possess experience managing VW settlement funds
  • Can efficiently implement competitive programs

Equity and Accessibility

Ensure "Electric For All" by:

  • Installing charging stations in urban, suburban, and rural areas
  • Providing additional incentives for low-income communities
  • Prioritizing areas with limited home charging access
  • Using EPA's EJScreen to target environmental justice communities

EV charging stations with customer

EV charging stations with customer

Private Sector Engagement

Maximize federal investment impact by:

  • Creating public/private partnerships
  • Implementing cost-share requirements
  • Setting fleet electrification standards
  • De-risking private sector investments

Two people charging electric vehicles

Two people charging electric vehicles

Technology-Neutral Approach

Focus on outcome-based policies that:

  • Measure success through drivers served and miles electrified
  • Create local installation and maintenance jobs
  • Support fleet electrification initiatives
  • Remain flexible as technology evolves

EV charging station with solar panels

EV charging station with solar panels

Streamlined Implementation

Accelerate deployment through:

  • Coordinated institutional collaboration
  • Simplified permitting processes
  • Expedited utility connections
  • Creation of an EV Deployment Task Force
  • Standardized best practices sharing

These principles create a framework for rapid, equitable, and sustainable transportation electrification across America.

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