Maine’s First NEVI EV Charging Station is a Tesla Supercharger

The Joint Office of Energy and Transportation (Joint Office) proudly unveiled the opening of the pioneering electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Maine, a significant milestone funded by the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. This modern facility, located at a bustling shopping center in Rockland, ME, boasts eight Tesla Supercharger ports. These cutting-edge ports are designed to support a variety of EVs, equipped with both SAE J3400 and CCS connectors, making it a versatile charging solution for EV owners. This project is a core component of Maine’s ambitious Recharge Maine initiative, aimed at promoting the adoption of electric vehicles to foster sustainable transportation options. Remarkably, five out of the eight ports have been financed through an $18 million allocation from NEVI funds, courtesy of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This investment is earmarked for the development of additional EV charging stations across the state, signifying a robust commitment to enhancing Maine’s EV infrastructure and supporting the transition to cleaner, more sustainable modes of transportation.

“Maine is leading efforts to build a future where everyone can ride and drive electric, starting with plans to electrify the vital I-95 and U.S. 1 corridors,” said Gabe Klein, director of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. “Maine’s efforts are an excellent example of how states can work to advance equity by creating access to lower-cost electrified transportation that also reduces emissions in disproportionately impacted urban communities. Together, we’re creating a national charging network that serves—and benefits—all Americans in their own backyards.”

The funding for this expansive electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is further bolstered by the state’s substantial $15 million Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) award. This considerable investment supports the deployment of 62 DC fast charger ports along with 520 Level 2 charging ports scattered across more than 70 cities and towns throughout the state. These strategically positioned stations not only enhance the convenience and feasibility of EV ownership but also signify a significant stride toward meeting the state’s stringent climate objectives, which include transitioning to a renewable portfolio standard of 80% by 2030, escalating to a complete 100% by 2050.

The inauguration of the state’s inaugural NEVI station plays a pivotal role in propelling regional initiatives aimed at curbing carbon emissions emanating from the transportation sector. Furthermore, it underscores a committed investment in fostering healthier, more affordable transportation alternatives that are accessible to all community members, reinforcing the state’s dedication to environmental sustainability and equitable transportation solutions.

“This funding will help expand our state’s EV charging network, reducing range anxiety for EV users who live, work, and travel in Maine,” said Maine Department of Transportation Commissioner, Bruce Van Note.

The Joint Office is actively collaborating with all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico, moving steadily towards the realization of the NEVI program’s goals, a pivotal element of the Biden Administration’s vision for a clean energy future. This partnership has already culminated in the availability of over 175,000 public chargers nationwide, marking significant progress towards achieving the Biden-Harris Administration’s ambitious target of deploying 500,000 EV chargers by 2030.

This expansion represents 35% of the targeted goal, highlighting a considerable advance in making electric vehicle charging accessible in communities and along the nation’s highways. The opening of the Maine station is part of a broader effort that includes station inaugurations in Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, and Hawaii, collectively bringing the total number of operational NEVI stations to seven. This initiative underscores NEVI’s holistic approach to the electric vehicle revolution, ensuring that the infrastructure not only supports a sustainable future but is also thoughtfully integrated across the country to meet the diverse needs of the American populace.

The EV Charging “Gold Rush”

A problem EV adopters face is a lack of nationwide EV charging. This is being addressed by NEVI funding, as well as astoundingly fast-growing private investment in EV charging. It’s known as the new “gold rush.”

Automotive Charging Solutions (ACS) is an example of a stellar company offering EV charging installation. The company is highly recommended by EVinfo.net.

The rise in utilization of non-Tesla fast-charging stations rose significantly in 2023, proving that EV charging is profitable in 2024.

According to Stable Auto, the daily use of these charging points jumped from a 9% usage rate at the beginning of the year to 18% by December.