States Advance EV Charging Networks with NEVI Funding

Four states have recently committed or deployed significant new fast-charging capacity through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program. Texas awarded $226 million for 321 stations, Colorado granted over $23 million in combined federal and state funds for 270 fast chargers, Arizona opened its first three federally funded sites with dozens more planned, and Hawaii saw commercial charging installations more than double in the first half of 2026, many at NEVI locations.

What progress have states made on EV charging this year?

Texas leads with a $226 million NEVI award covering 321 new charging stations. Colorado combined federal and state money for over $23 million to add 270 fast chargers statewide. Arizona launched its first three NEVI-funded fast-charging locations and has dozens more in the pipeline. In Hawaii, commercial-site charging installations more than doubled during the first six months of 2026, with many of the new stations at NEVI sites.

Why did NEVI funding pause and restart?

The Trump administration froze the NEVI program, but a court lifted the freeze after litigation by the Sierra Club, its partners, and a coalition of states. Since the restart, hundreds of millions of dollars have flowed to charging projects across the country.

What does this mean for drivers?

Sierra Club Clean Transportation for All Director Katherine García said building out the network gives drivers confidence to switch to EVs powered by cheap electricity and avoid record-high gas prices. The expanding network reduces range anxiety and makes long-distance travel more practical.

What happens next for the national charging network?

García urged Congress to reauthorize and fund NEVI in the next transportation package so states can keep expanding a convenient network. The current Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act extension negotiations will determine whether the momentum continues.

For drivers considering an EV, understanding charging access is only part of the equation. Battery longevity also matters — see How long do EV batteries really last? for a breakdown of real-world degradation data.