Governor Jay Inslee, alongside Washington State Department of Commerce Director Mike Fong, unveiled a significant investment of over $85 million in grants to facilitate the installation of nearly 5,000 new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across various communities in Washington. The recipients include nonprofits, electric utilities, tribes, and public agencies, with half of the grants aimed at installing chargers in communities most affected by fossil fuel pollution.
Governor Inslee stressed the importance of enhancing EV infrastructure, stating, “Expanding charging stations is crucial in making electric vehicles more accessible.” This aligns with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles in Washington, currently the second-highest in the nation, attributed to legislative initiatives like the Climate Commitment Act.
Commerce Director Mike Fong reiterated the commitment to decarbonizing Washington’s economy, prioritizing charger installations in multifamily housing, public spaces, and pollution-vulnerable communities. Among the recipients is Women of Wisdom (WOW) Tri-Cities, recognized for its visionary EV carshare program addressing emission concerns and the demand for charging in low-mobility areas.
This marks the initial phase of investments through the Washington State Electric Vehicle Charging Program, supported by the Climate Commitment Act. The goal is to reduce transportation emissions, improve air quality, and ensure equitable access to EV charging infrastructure.
The grants cover a range of projects, including installations in multifamily properties, fleets, workplaces, and public locations, totaling 4,710 Level 2 EV chargers and 271 direct current fast chargers. The impact includes efficient overnight charging and fast charging along major travel corridors.
The grant allocation process prioritized areas with high pollution and limited charging infrastructure, supported by interactive maps developed in collaboration with Timmons Group. The funds also create job opportunities for electricians, with criteria favoring projects partnering with electrical apprenticeship programs.
The Center for Sustainable Energy played a pivotal role in program design, incentive structure, and ongoing technical assistance. The Department of Commerce plans to open applications for $67 million to fund community decarbonization efforts, promoting clean energy and benefiting overburdened communities. Additionally, a Tribal Clean Energy funding opportunity with $16 million aims to support similar projects by federally recognized tribal governments and contracted service providers.
Washington state’s $85 million investment in EV charging stations isn’t just about convenience; it’s a strategic move with numbers to back it up. Studies show a clear link between charging station access and EV adoption. California, with over 80,000 stations, leads the US in EV sales, while McKinsey & Company found access within 5 miles of home significantly boosts purchase decisions. This translates to real-world impact: the IEA estimates EVs could avoid 2.3 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions globally by 2030, with charging infrastructure being key.
But Washington isn’t just throwing money at metal posts. The program prioritizes long-term sustainability and accessibility. Public ownership and standardized protocols ensure stations remain available and affordable, while partnerships with utilities and grid operators pave the way for smart charging solutions that optimize energy use.
The program champions smart charging systems that adapt to grid demand, solar-powered stations for renewable integration, and partnerships with research institutions to explore cutting-edge tech.
This focus on the future extends beyond technology. Collaborations with tribal governments ensure equitable access for Native American communities, while electrical apprenticeship programs create job opportunities and upskill the workforce for the clean energy transition. Community-based organizations help tailor solutions to specific needs, making sure everyone benefits from the EV revolution
