Wisconsin Funds 42 New EV Charging Stations Statewide

Wisconsin just became the first state in the nation to hit a major electric vehicle milestone, and it's making life easier for over 43,000 EV drivers across the state.

Governor Tony Evers announced $25 million in federal funding this week for 42 new fast-charging stations at convenient spots like gas stations, hotels, restaurants, and grocery stores. The chargers will pop up along highways that haven't had access before, filling crucial gaps for road trippers and daily commuters alike.

The funding comes from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Wisconsin has now invested $62 million total into 120 charging projects statewide, building out a network that reaches every corner of the state.

Six of the new stations will serve northeast Wisconsin communities including Sturgeon Bay, De Pere, Chilton, Fond du Lac, Gillett, and Reedsville, totaling more than $4 million in local investment. These aren't just charging ports. They're economic engines that bring travelers into towns to shop, eat, and stay while their vehicles power up.

Wisconsin recently became the first state to place charging stations every 50 miles along key interstates and highways. That achievement unlocked the ability to expand into more rural and underserved areas, ensuring no driver gets stranded without power.

The state also leads the nation as the first to support EV charging projects on Tribal lands, creating access for communities often left behind in infrastructure buildouts. Of the initial network of stations, 25 are already operational and seeing strong use from drivers.

The Ripple Effect

This charging network does more than help individual drivers save money at the pump. It's transforming how communities think about economic development and clean energy jobs.

Local businesses are already seeing increased foot traffic at the 25 operational charging stations. While drivers wait 20 to 30 minutes for a fast charge, they're grabbing coffee, picking up groceries, or checking into hotels. That's real money flowing into local economies that might otherwise get bypassed on the interstate.

The investment also addresses a major barrier for people who can't charge at home. Apartment dwellers, renters, and homeowners without garage access now have reliable public options, making EV ownership practical for more families.

With gas prices hovering around $3.81 per gallon in Wisconsin, the timing couldn't be better. Fueling a vehicle with electricity costs significantly less than gasoline and avoids the wild price swings caused by global events. Families are already saving hundreds of dollars a year by switching to electric.

The charging network is creating jobs too, from construction and installation to ongoing maintenance and operations. Wisconsin is positioning itself as a leader in the clean energy economy, attracting private investment and keeping the state competitive in transportation innovation.

These 42 new stations will transform what's possible for EV drivers across Wisconsin, turning range anxiety into road trip confidence.