FHWA Releases Updated NEVI Formula Program Q&A and Fully Built Out Certification Guidance
Recently, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) published new questions and answers to the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program Q&A and announced slight revisions to the Fully Built Out Certification of its NEVI guidance.
NEVI Formula Program Updated Q&A
As electric vehicle (EV) charging technology continues to rapidly evolve, FHWA is ensuring federal standards for EV charging are responsive to private sector innovation and meet the needs of EV drivers.
The additional Q&A clarify the existing guidance which has always allowed for flexibility in charging standards—including use of other connectors, such as J3400—so long as there is a Combined Charging System (CCS) connector. Today’s updates do not represent a change to existing NEVI minimum standards. As part of the FHWA’s role to oversee the NEVI program and provide technical assistance to states, FHWA is publishing this additional information for frequently asked questions to provide clarity and ensure consistency in the implementation of the NEVI program. The additional questions provide information pertinent to the Electric Vehicle Charger Reliability and Accessibility Accelerator Program, charger standards, charger connectors, curbside charging, payment processing, exception requests, medium- and heavy-duty charging, and other general questions.
FHWA and the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation will host a webinar on Dec. 17 to provide additional information for stakeholders on the state of the market for the SAE J3400 connector.
Fully Built Out Certification Revisions
Additionally, the FHWA is announcing slight revisions to the Fully Built Out Certification of its NEVI guidance. The revisions provide more flexibility so states can begin working on EV charging infrastructure beyond their Alternative Fuel Corridors—accelerating progress in building out their EV charging networks. The revisions expand criteria for “creditable” electric vehicle charging stations for States to qualify for fully built out certification; and clarify eligibility for Level 2, medium- and heavy-duty, and off-corridor EV charging infrastructure projects after achieving fully built out certification. The changes provide more flexibility to achieve certification and accelerate progress in their NEVI programs beyond Alternative Fuel Corridors and in communities.
