Kevin Lamarque | Reuters The Biden government this week proposed new standards for its plan to build a national network of 500,000 electric vehicle charging stations by 2030, the latest move in a bid to speed up the country’s transition to clean energy. Biden officials said the proposal for minimum standards would help lay the groundwork for states to build charging station projects that are accessible to all drivers, regardless of location, EV brand or charging company. Electrification of the transportation sector, one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, is critical to mitigating climate change. The administration has advertised EVs as more affordable to Americans than gas-powered cars and has set a target of 50% electric vehicle sales by 2030. Earlier this year, the White House unveiled a plan to allocate $ 5 billion to states to fund EV chargers over the next five years. The plan is part of bipartisan infrastructure legislation, which includes $ 7.5 billion to build a national network of EV charging stations. “Everyone deserves a chance to take advantage of electric vehicles,” Transport Minister Pete Butingig told reporters on Wednesday. “We pay attention not only to the quantity of EV chargers but also to their quality,” Buttigieg said. “Everyone should be able to find a charging station that works when and where they need it.” Officials said the standards would provide a unified network of chargers with similar payment systems, billing information and billing speeds. The rule requires real-time information about the pricing and location of the station so that drivers can better plan their trips. Stations should also have a minimum number and type of chargers. “We are addressing the stress of autonomy and vehicle charging deserts by ensuring that charging stations are easily and equally accessible, allowing every American to go from coast to coast in an electric vehicle,” Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said in a statement. The US is the third largest market for electric vehicles in the world after China and Europe. EV drivers spend 60% less each year on fuel costs compared to drivers of gas-powered cars, according to a 2020 Consumer Reports study. The White House has previously proposed an EV incentive package to make extra money available to consumers who bought electric vehicles made by unionized workers. The government has also pledged to transfer its federal fleet of 600,000 cars and trucks to electricity by 2035. The proposed rule is expected to be published in the Federal Register next week. WATCHES: Technology that allows drivers to charge while driving
