A private contractor in Oak Grove is among the latest cities in Kentucky to receive federal funding to build an electric vehicle charging station.
Gov. Andy Beshear announced that Team Kentucky continues to lead the way in the fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) sector with a fourth round of awards to further expand the state’s EV charging network. Six developers were selected to receive up to $8.6 million to build an additional 11 federally funded fast charging EV stations.
“Kentucky is continuing to lead the charge on the EV front,” said Gov. Beshear. “Having a robust charging network means peace of mind for EV drivers who don’t have to worry about whether they’ll find a convenient place to charge up. These fast charging stations are an investment in everyone who lives here, works here and visits our great state. And they will help us welcome more and more people to our New Kentucky Home.”
The stations will be along Kentucky’s interstates and parkways designated as Alternative Fuel Corridors, supporting long-distance driving for drivers across the commonwealth, as well as travelers visiting the Bluegrass State. The funding comes from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program established under the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The awards are from the third Request for Proposals and are the fourth round of awards in the state. In total, Kentucky has now approved 48 fast charging stations from 11 developers for a total of $32.9 million in federal formula funds.
“The federal dollars coming to Kentucky are allowing us to invest in 21st century infrastructure that is supporting driver’s choices,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “That investment is quickly being realized. We’ll see more fast charging stations coming online soon, and we expect to have 50 stations open along Kentucky’s interstates and parkways by late 2026. It’s exciting to see this vital charging network take shape.”
This round of funding includes building charging stations in Bowling Green, Corinth, Hebron, Lexington, Louisville, Manchester, Morgantown, Oak Grove, Paducah, Sadieville and Williamsburg.
Private developers must design, build, own, operate and maintain fast charging stations for five years after construction is complete. Each developer must fund at least 20% of the construction and operational costs. Each station must have at least four charging ports of 150 kilowatts each, be accessible to the public 24 hours a day/seven days a week, and work with most EV models.
In September, Gov. Beshear cut the ribbon on the first EV fast charging station in Kentucky – and the first in the southeastern U.S. – built with NEVI funds.
