Bill > HB324

This bill establishes the Electric Vehicle Rural Infrastructure Program and Fund to help private developers cover non-utility costs, which are expenses for equipment not owned or operated by an electric company, associated with installing electric vehicle charging stations in specific areas. These areas include rural and underserved localities (defined as counties with low population density or cities with high unemployment and poverty rates), eligible public land like state parks or national parks and forests, or within one mile of eligible public land boundaries. Private developers can apply for grants covering up to 70% of these non-utility costs, with the remaining project costs needing to be funded by non-federal sources. The Department of Energy will set guidelines for the program, prioritizing locations with public amenities and safety features, and ensuring at least 70% of awarded funds go to rural and underserved areas. Grants will not be given if a rural area already has a high density of charging ports, and charging stations must meet minimum power and uptime requirements, meaning they are operational and successfully dispensing electricity. The program and fund will expire on July 1, 2031.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB324