Universal EV Chargers, an provider of charging infrastructure, has secured significant grants aimed at accelerating the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Illinois. The move marks a notable step forward in the state’s efforts to bolster its EV charging network.
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) recently granted competitive funds to Universal EV Chargers, designated for the deployment of 176 new Direct Current (DC) fast charging ports. These charging points are set to be strategically located at 44 different sites across the state. The grants are a result of the IEPA’s Volkswagen Mitigation Plan, which employs funds from Volkswagen’s settlement over emissions violations.
Universal EV Chargers’ receipt of these grants underlines the company’s commitment to expanding Illinois’ EV charging infrastructure. The granted funds represent a significant share, nearly 50%, of the total grants allocated in the state. While the exact charging capacity of these fast-charging stations remains unspecified, Universal EV Chargers has highlighted that the stations will incorporate advanced technology and robust charging capabilities, ensuring efficient and rapid charging experiences for EV users.
See also: Universal EV Chargers Awarded $3.2 Million in Grants to Expand EV Charging in Texas
Although the specific charge rate for these stations has not been disclosed, the stations’ primary advantage lies in their compatibility with a wide array of electric vehicles. The company has also emphasized the ease and speed of the installation process for these stations.
Illinois has undertaken substantial measures to accelerate the adoption of EVs within its jurisdiction. Legislative initiatives in 2021 established an objective of achieving one million registered EVs by 2030. To support this goal, the state introduced EV rebate programs and charging infrastructure incentives, overseen by the IEPA. Furthermore, Illinois has revealed plans to invest $148 million over the next five years to establish EV charging stations along key interstate corridors, as part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. The state’s involvement in the Regional Electric Vehicle Midwest Coalition since October 2021 further underscores its commitment to EV adoption.
The presence of notable players in the charging infrastructure sector has also contributed to the development of Illinois’ charging network. EVBox, a Dutch charging infrastructure company, established its North American headquarters in Illinois in February 2020, adding expertise to the state’s EV endeavors.
Hemal Doshi, CEO of Universal EV Chargers, expressed satisfaction with the IEPA grants, viewing them as a testament to the company’s dedicated efforts in building a comprehensive charging infrastructure across Illinois. Doshi highlighted that the granted funds would play a pivotal role in expediting the company’s mission of providing accessible and dependable charging solutions. These solutions are designed to seamlessly integrate EV ownership into the daily lives of residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the state. Doshi also noted that these advancements align with the company’s broader strategy of establishing a nationwide network of fast EV chargers.
Beyond its achievements in Illinois, Universal EV Chargers also recently secured another notable charging infrastructure contract in Texas earlier this year. The Texan government awarded the company $3.2 million in grants to install 105 charging stations across 21 locations within the state. This achievement further solidifies Universal EV Chargers’ role as a significant player in the EV charging infrastructure sector.
As the transition to electric vehicles gains momentum across the United States, initiatives like those undertaken by Universal EV Chargers play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable and electrified future.
