The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has kicked into high gear with plans to electrify the state's highways with a new network of fast-charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs). As part of an initiative aimed at making green transportation more viable, the state agency is currently courting vendors who could help bring the ambitious project to life.
MassDOT issued a Request for Responses (RFR) looking to create a pre-qualified pool of vendors. These selected vendors might soon find themselves with the task to design, permit, build, operate, and maintain Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) stations as laid out by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program, MassDOT announced. Proposals are due by January 11, 2024, with the state aiming to wrap up the selection process by May of the same year.
The race to reduce carbon emissions is on, and Transportation Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt is quoted saying, "MassDOT is excited to be taking this step towards a brighter future for our environment and for ourselves with the installation of a state-wide network of reliable fast-charging stations for electric vehicles." The expected result? Fewer fumes from gas vehicles and a hopefully cleaner air for Massachusetts residents.
Climate Chief Melissa Hoffer echoed these sentiments, expressing her support for the initiative, "This initiative from MassDOT is an incredibly welcomed step toward achieving our climate goals." She emphasized the crucial role of EVs in the transition from fossil fuels and the incentivization provided by increased charging stations. Each charging station, as per NEVI requirements, is expected to incorporate at least four chargers capable of delivering 150 kW each and will be positioned no more than 50 miles apart along major roads.
Funding for the electrifying upgrade comes courtesy of the NEVI Formula Program, born out of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. In September 2022, MassDOT threw its hat in the ring with an initial plan to tap into the funds allocated to the state for this very purpose. If everything goes according to plan, Massachusetts drivers could soon expect to plug in at convenient locations, marking an era of change in the state's transportation landscape.
