The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has released its annual update to the Charge Up Kansas National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Plan. The NEVI Program, part of the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, provides $5 billion over 5 years to build out a nationwide network of electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors.
To establish Kansas as a leader in the development of a convenient, affordable, reliable, and equitable EV charging network, it is important to have a strategy in place for deploying EVSE. The planned approach consists of analyzing the status of Alternative Fuel Corridors, identifying charging needs and EVSE gaps, and working with state agencies to study the feasibility of location recommendations. It will be important to understand the funding structure and requirements outlined in the NEVI Guidance along with the local, state, and federal policies for installing, implementing, operating, and maintaining EVSE.
Kansas is set to receive an estimated $40 million in NEVI funding to support the growing adoption of EVs in the state. In its 2023 plan update, KDOT outlines the progress made in the past year to deploy this funding and further develop the necessary EV charging infrastructure across the state’s highway system.
A key focus has been advancing the contracting and procurement process to award NEVI funds. In March 2023, KDOT issued a Request for Interest to give notice of an upcoming Call for EV Charging Projects. This solicited over 170 project concepts from potential developers. Building on this, KDOT plans to release its first Request for Proposals in August 2023 seeking bids to construct six initial fast charging stations.
Outreach and coordination have also expanded. A new Clean Transportation Council was formed bringing together multiple state agencies to oversee clean transportation initiatives. KDOT staff have conducted over a dozen public presentations to educate residents on EVs and NEVI. Additionally, a utility stakeholder workshop in March supported discussions around grid impacts and charger siting.
Statistics provided in the update show electric vehicle registrations in Kansas continue growing each year, now totaling nearly 5,000 EVs. The burgeoning manufacturing presence of companies like Panasonic is expected to further drive EV adoption in the state. KDOT has identified priority corridors and locations to focus initial NEVI investments that will enhance regional charging connectivity.
As Kansas advances deployment using its NEVI formula funds, streamlined infrastructure development and coordination across sectors will be key to establishing a convenient network supporting the sustainable movement of people and goods throughout the state.
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