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Last year, Ohio officials got a jump on the transition to electric vehicles by submitting a proposal for National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure funds to install charging stations along our interstates. Because of that forethought, the Buckeye State is now the first in the country to be able to announce planned locations for 27 EV charging stations.
"This is an exciting time for Ohio as we continue to lead the charge in electric mobility," said Gov. Mike DeWine. "As more Ohioans purchase EVs, this statewide network of chargers will ensure that our transportation infrastructure is prepared to accommodate these drivers, as well as visitors who travel to Ohio to see all that our great state has to offer."
Among the criticisms of EVs has been worry that a driver would have to limit traveling range. But with more than $18 million to fund fast-charging stations along Interstate 70, I-71, I-74, I-75, I-76, I-77 and I-90, that worry will be lessened -- and travelers driving EVs will have a chance to stop in some of our communities.
NEVI funding will be matched with nearly $6 million from private entities selected to install and operate the stations, including Pilot Travel Centers, TH Midwest, Francis Energy, Meijer Stores, EVgo Services, ChargeNet Stations, and Equilon / Shell.
Unfortunately, none of the selected sites in round one are in the Mahoning Valley.
There were three exits on Interstate 76 in Mahoning County for which the state requested proposals; however, no feasible bids were received, according to Breanna Badanes, spokeswoman for DriveOhio, the state's center for smart mobility.
The good news is that an EV fast-charging station already is located on Salt Springs Road immediately off Interstate 80 in Trumbull County.
"The focus with this first round was to select locations every 50 miles along interstates. However, future rounds will look to build stations on major state and U.S. routes," Badanes said. "This first round awarded just over $18 million of the $140 million total allocated to Ohio, so we're confident we can meet the needs in each region of the state in future rounds."
The Ohio Department of Transportation this fall is expected to issue round two proposal requests to install 16 more charging stations along the state's major U.S. and state routes.
This is all part of a broader transition for Ohio, and one that our elected officials are wise to have supported.
"As the mix of automobiles on the road changes, we must adapt our infrastructure, and EV charging stations are a part of improving customer service for Ohio drivers and businesses," said Lt. Gov. Jon Husted. "The automobile industry is a proud part of our history, and with new investments in battery plants and EVs, the auto industry can be a source of jobs and prosperity for our future."
Forward-thinking efforts such as this one will help ensure Ohio keeps setting an example for the rest of the country.
DriveOhio Executive Director Preeti Choudhary could not have put it better:
"One of the major concerns for consumers considering purchasing an electric vehicle has been 'Can I find a place to charge it?' This is a major step in removing that barrier and making sure that in Ohio, the answer is yes."