Driving Across Texas in an EV May Not Get Easier

February 11, 2025 – The recent suspension of federal funding for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure by the Trump administration has introduced significant uncertainty for North Texas’ clean energy initiatives. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has instructed state transportation departments to pause activities related to the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, pending a comprehensive review.

This directive affects approximately $3 billion allocated for EV charging projects nationwide, with Texas slated to receive a substantial portion. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) had previously outlined plans to deploy these funds to establish an interconnected network of EV charging stations across the state.

In North Texas, the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) had been proactive in advancing EV infrastructure. The council secured a $15 million community grant to implement the North Texas Equitable Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NTx–EEVI) Project, aiming to enhance charging accessibility, particularly in underserved areas.

The funding suspension has prompted NCTCOG and other regional stakeholders to reassess their plans. While the private sector has significantly invested in EV infrastructure, industry leaders assert that consumer demand will still drive the expansion of charging networks despite federal funding issues.

The pause in federal support raises concerns about potential delays in EV infrastructure deployment, which could impact the region’s transition to cleaner transportation options. Local authorities and organizations are now exploring alternative funding mechanisms and partnerships to maintain momentum in their clean energy efforts.