FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced a request for proposals (RFP) to further expand Kentucky’s network of fast-charging stations to support reliable, long-distance travel for electric vehicle drivers across the state.
“Electric vehicles are no longer the technology of the future, they’re here now,” Beshear said. “We’re excited by the progress we’re making to expand our charging network, and we will keep working until Kentucky has the network required to meet the needs of the families that rely on our roads each day.”
This is the fourth RFP under the state’s EV Charging Program, which has supported the opening of 12 fast-charging sites to date. In total, Kentucky is expected to receive nearly $70 million in federal funds from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program established through the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).
Previous proposals focused on Kentucky’s Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs) along its interstates and parkways, where the current 12 open sites and the 16 under construction are located. This latest proposal seeks private developers who will design, build, operate, and maintain the stations in other urban and rural areas not already served by those stations, helping ensure EV infrastructure reaches communities across Kentucky.
This includes rural portions of counties, some parkways such as the Bluegrass Parkway, as well as routes connecting interstates and parkways: U.S. 23, U.S. 68, U.S. 25E, U.S. 27 and U.S. 127, AA Highway in central and eastern Kentucky; U.S. 68, KY 80, U.S. 51 and U.S. 60 in western Kentucky; and urban areas such as Ashland, Covington, Lexington, Elizabethtown, Owensboro and Henderson.
Each station must have at least four charging ports and be accessible to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
NEVI funds totaling $55 million have been obligated for fast-charging stations in Kentucky.
“Reaching a milestone of 12 open sites was a big step to ease range anxiety for EV drivers who live in Kentucky and those who are visiting our state,” said Transportation Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman. “Additional fast-charging stations statewide will make a real difference for Kentuckians and those visiting the commonwealth.”
Responses to the RFP are due July 13, and selections are anticipated late this summer. To obtain the RFP and learn more about the EV Charging Program visit EVCharging.ky.gov.