States Spend $94M on EV Chargers Despite Federal Freeze

A federal program to build electric vehicle charging stations across America just had its best year yet, even though the government tried to shut it down.

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, launched in 2021 with $5 billion in funding, faced a rocky start. The Biden administration was slow to write the rules, and when Trump took office, he froze the money completely.

But states didn't give up. In 2025, they spent $94 million on EV charging projects, more than double the $44 million from 2024. This money is building hundreds of charging ports, with agreements in place for thousands more.

Pennsylvania and Ohio lead the pack. They were quick to organize and submit proposals, earning them the top two spots in program funding. Pennsylvania alone received $16.2 million, far more than even California's $920,000.

The wins aren't just happening on paper. Environmental groups and 17 states sued the Trump administration over the funding freeze. On January 23, a federal court ruled they were right, ordering the money to flow again.

The Ripple Effect

This program matters for more than just EV owners. Every charging station creates construction jobs and supports local businesses that host them. The original goal called for 500,000 public charging ports by 2030, which would make electric vehicles practical for millions more Americans.

The timing couldn't be better for drivers considering the switch. With gas prices hitting $4.29 per gallon in some areas due to the Iran conflict, electric vehicles are looking more affordable even without federal rebates.

More than 95 percent of the original $5 billion still sits unspent, largely because of legal battles over the freeze. Now that courts have cleared the way, advocacy groups are pushing states to move faster on securing and spending these funds.

At a Pilot Travel Center in London, Ohio, the country's first NEVI-funded charging station stands ready. Down the street at another station, couples like Chip and Cathy Lillyman from Celina are already enjoying the benefits, charging their Lexus while gas prices climb.

The program faced enormous obstacles, but states kept building anyway, and now the courts have their back.