[Press release courtesy of Virginia Energy]
The Virginia Department of Energy (Virginia Energy) awarded grants totaling $1.1 million to three rural communities to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This investment will serve as a catalyst for local business growth, enhance tourism industries, and expand access to sustainable transportation options.
“By equipping our communities with these practical assets, we’re not only attracting more visitors but also supporting local residents and businesses,” said Virginia Energy Director Glenn Davis. “EV charging stations have the potential to boost revenue of nearby businesses by $1,500 annually, keeping Virginia competitive in the evolving tourism industry.”
Virginia’s tourism industry brought in a record $24 billion in 2023. Expanded EV infrastructure in these Virginia rural communities that benefit most from visitors will only increase those dollars.
The funds will also support the growing EV needs of Virginia consumers. In 2023, Virginia had nearly 100,000 battery-powered or plug-in electric hybrid vehicles on the road—a 49% surge from the 65,000 in 2022—according to Virginia Clean Cities.
The following applicants were awarded funding:
A&N Electric Cooperative- $274,290
This project will install two charging stations on the Eastern Shore in New Church and Capeville for light-duty battery electric vehicles (BEV). It also complements a larger program constructing a national network of charging stations through the Virginia Department of Transportation called the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program.
Blink Charging- $542,444
This project installs five charging stations in Cape Charles, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Petersburg. Two Level 2 chargers, which can charge light-duty battery and plug-in hybrid vehicles, will also be installed in Salem.
Rappahannock Electric Cooperative- $121,974
This project will result in three charging stations: two in Caret and one in Doswell. Each was selected to support places where visitors are out of their cars for a long period of time, such as restaurants, and will be equipped with Level 2 chargers.
These grants are provided through the Electric Vehicle Charging Assistance Program (EVCAP) funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Virginia Energy’s State Energy Office will administer the program.