Automotive
Minnesota opens $41.2 million federal grant round for EV fast chargers across Greater Minnesota
The state's third NEVI funding round expands charging infrastructure beyond major interstates to up to 40 new locations.
The short version
- The Minnesota Department of Transportation announced $41.2 million in federal funding to build up to 40 new electric vehicle fast-charging locations.
- Grants will expand charging infrastructure beyond Interstate 35, Interstate 90, and Interstate 94 into 74 eligible areas across Greater Minnesota.
- Federal funds cover 80% of project costs, with winning applicants responsible for the remaining 20% and ongoing station operations.
- Applications are due November 2, with conditional grant selections expected in late December 2026 or January 2027.
Key facts
- The $41.2 million allocation marks Minnesota's third and largest funding phase under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program.[Electrek]
- MnDOT expects to select up to 40 sites across 74 eligible regional zones, with a maximum of one station funded per zone.[Electrek]
- The federal government certified the state's primary interstate corridors as fully built out, allowing funding to shift to other highways.[Electrek]
- Technical requirements mandate each site provide at least four NACS and four CCS1 connectors that can simultaneously supply 150 kW each.[Electrek]
- Minnesota's registered electric vehicle count rose from approximately 9,000 in 2018 to 90,000.[Electrek]
What remains uncertain
- The final number of awarded locations and the specific winning operators remain undetermined until conditional awards are announced.[Electrek]