Revel Gets $60M in New York State Funding to Install More EV Chargers

After the federal government froze funding for the $5 billion NEVI federal electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure program in an attempt to tear down the EV industry, some states are taking matters into their own hands to ensure that the transition to electric vehicles stays on track. One such example comes from Revel, an EV charging infrastructure startup, which recently secured a $60 million loan from New York’s clean energy investment fund, NY Green Bank. This significant loan will help Revel more than triple its public fast-charging network across New York City, signaling a strong commitment to the EV transition, even as federal support hangs in the balance.

NY Green Bank’s First foray into EV Infrastructure

This loan is a first for the outstanding NY Green Bank, which has not previously funded EV charging infrastructure. The bank’s involvement marks a notable shift, both in terms of New York’s commitment to EV adoption and the growing recognition that EV charging infrastructure is not just a public good, but a financially viable investment. By stepping in to support Revel, the Green Bank signals that lending institutions are beginning to see EV charging networks as an opportunity that can deliver a return on investment, while also playing a crucial role in supporting the clean energy economy.

Expanding Access to Fast-Charging Stations

Revel’s plan to expand its network in New York City will help meet the growing demand for fast-charging stations, particularly in urban areas. The $60 million loan will enable Revel to build out nine new sites across the city, which will eventually result in 267 fast-charging stalls by 2027. The company plans to complete five new public charging sites within the next 12 months, adding around 158 charging stalls. This includes Revel’s highly anticipated site at John F. Kennedy (JFK) Airport, which is expected to open in the first quarter of 2025.

The JFK site is strategically located near areas where ride-hail drivers commonly wait for passengers, making it a critical addition for both personal EV owners and the growing number of electric ride-hail vehicles. Similarly, the upcoming site in Maspeth, Queens will feature 60 charging stalls, which would make it one of the largest public charging stations in the country.

In September 2024, EVinfo.net reported on how Revel expanded its EV charging network in New York City with the official opening of a new fast-charging station at Pier 36 in Manhattan on September 26, 2024. This station is the first of its kind in the borough and operates 24/7, offering the public more convenient access to EV charging.

A Commitment to Clean Energy

New York’s forward-thinking, highly commendable Governor Kathy Hochul underscored the importance of expanding EV charging infrastructure in the state. “In support of the transition to a clean energy economy, it is critical that we continue to build electric vehicle infrastructure to ease the shift to EV ownership for more New Yorkers, especially those in urban areas,” Governor Hochul said. The state’s efforts are further bolstered by a mandate from 2022, requiring that all new light-duty passenger vehicle sales or leases be zero-emission vehicles by 2035.

With this mandate, New York is setting an ambitious goal for a future dominated by electric vehicles. But to make this vision a reality, expanding the charging infrastructure is crucial. Revel’s contribution to this infrastructure growth is pivotal in providing more charging options for residents and visitors in New York City, a region where access to public EV charging is often limited.

Beyond New York: Revel’s National Expansion

Revel’s commitment to expanding its network doesn’t stop in New York. The company is also eyeing growth in other markets, particularly in California. Revel is working to raise both equity and debt funding to build more charging stations, with a specific focus on the Bay Area and its growing electric robotaxi industry. This year, Revel is set to launch its first charging station in San Francisco’s Mission District—a 12-stall site scheduled to go live in March. The company is also developing eight additional lease sites across the Bay Area, with a total of 125 stalls, all targeting openings by 2025.

Revel isn’t stopping there. The company has also signed leases for two locations in Los Angeles, which will add 50 charging stalls to its growing national footprint. With this expansion, Revel is positioning itself as a key player in the rapidly growing EV infrastructure industry.

The Road Ahead

As the need for more EV charging stations becomes increasingly urgent, Revel’s efforts in both New York and California represent a step in the right direction. While the federal government’s role in funding EV infrastructure may be uncertain, states like New York and companies like Revel are stepping up to fill the gap. With major investments, public-private partnerships, and a growing understanding of the potential returns from EV charging infrastructure, the road to widespread EV adoption is becoming clearer.

As more and more cities and states invest in clean energy solutions, the transition to electric vehicles seems more achievable than ever. Revel’s work will help ensure that as more people switch to EVs, they will have the infrastructure they need to power their vehicles, making the shift to a clean energy future more accessible for everyone.

Will other states follow New York’s lead and accelerate their own EV infrastructure plans? We hope so. Only time will tell, but it’s clear that Revel’s recent success marks an important milestone in the race to build a more sustainable, electrified transportation system across the U.S.

EVinfo.net reminds you at election time, to remember which forward-thinking politicians supported the EV industry, and which tried to tear it down.