The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) is on the lookout for applicants to tap into its $2.8 million fund aimed at expanding electric vehicle charging options across the state. Announced in their latest solicitation, the Fast Charge TN Network grant program is inviting submissions from various entities, including local power companies, private and public institutions of higher education, and government bodies. As reported by TDEC, these grants are part of a scheme to develop more direct current fast charging infrastructure, crucial for the growing fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) in Tennessee.
With a dedication to driving the push toward sustainable mobility, TDEC has partnered with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) since 2021, seeking to fill the voids in Tennessee's transportation electrification. The funding, specifically originating from the Volkswagen Diesel Settlement Environmental Mitigation Trust, is meant to address past wrongdoings where Volkswagen breached clean air norms in vehicle sales spanning from 2009-2016. Having launched 35 Fast Charge TN Network sites and with another 18 under development, the program is intent on ensuring the availability of a fast-charging station at minimum intervals of 50 miles along prioritized corridors, TDEC conveyed.
Particularly, this invitation for applications is to address the regions that are likely not covered by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Grant Program, as administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT). The NEVI program focuses on building fast EV charging infrastructure along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors. Eligible applicants, TDEC stipulates, must commit to the ownership, maintenance, and operation of the grant-funded EV charging stations for a duration of five years post their setup and commissioning. Additionally, the infrastructure must be available to the public around the clock, according to TDEC's guidelines.
Prospective applicants looking to bridge the charging gaps are encouraged to apply, especially those in designated zones marked on the interactive map provided by TDEC. However, it's noted that these zones might be revised before the final selection of awarded projects. To aid interested parties, a mandatory application workshop is set for July 14, and TDEC emphasizes that attendance is compulsory, either live or via a recording that will be posted on the department's website. More information regarding the application as well as the workshop registration is available on TDEC's online grants management system.
The clock is ticking, as applications are due by September 12, 4 p.m. CDT. Post submission, TDEC will carry out a comprehensive review to determine the eligibility and merit of the applications. Award announcements will follow, and successful applicants can expect swift contract negotiations soon after. For those looking to stay informed, joining the TDEC VW Settlement email list is the way to go. For a deeper dive into the specifics of the Fast Charge TN Network and the TVA’s EV programming, the TDEC and TVA websites offer expansive resources on this environmentally forward initiative.
