Florida to increase the number of electric vehicle charging stations along thoroughfares

Florida will soon expand the infrastructure for electric vehicles in-state with the addition of new charging stations along major thoroughfares under funding from the Volkswagen Settlement.

Announced by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the plan calls for the infrastructure evolution to go hand in hand with diesel emissions reductions. In all, the state has been granted $166 million to improve its air quality, though the state is still seeking public comment on how those funds are utilized.

“General Motors applauds Governor DeSantis for his leadership and commitment to allocate nearly $25 million to light duty EV charging infrastructure across Florida,” Mike Ableson, vice president of Electric Vehicle Charging and Infrastructure at General Motors, said. “This is a meaningful step forward in helping us realize an all-electric future as we work to achieve our vision of a world with zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion.”

General Motors was not the only company excited by the prospects of the announcement, however. Duke Energy Florida, Florida Power and Light Company, Electrify America and ChargePoint all were encouraged by the news, among others.

“We look forward to working with the State to make Florida a leader in the electrification of transportation,” Eric Silagy, president and CEO for Florida Power & Light Company, said. “In recent years, Florida’s energy sector has made incredible strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which means cleaner air for all of us who call Florida home and for the millions of visitors who contribute to our economy. Along with our plan to install more than 30 million solar panels by 2030, we are committed to helping the state significantly expanding the amount of EV charging stations so more Floridians can enjoy the benefits of using electric vehicles.”

Electrify America intends to install ultra-fast charging stations at 23 locations along various interstates, as well as the Miami metro area.

“Funding from the Volkswagen Settlement presents a major opportunity for the State of Florida to drive private investment in transportation electrification,” said David Schatz, Director for Public Policy at ChargePoint. “ChargePoint is pleased to support the State’s plan to commit maximum funding to electric vehicle charging stations, opening programs to potentially double the amount of EV charging available today. With today’s announcement, Governor DeSantis makes clear that Florida’s future is electric.”

Overall, the state hopes the plan will not only improve air quality but also encourage the purchase of more electric vehicles.