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