October 28, 2025

It Just Got Easier To Install NEVI-Funded EV Charging Stations Thanks To Program Changes

5 Min. Read

• The NEVI Program’s 2025 updates have made it easier for businesses to invest in on-site EV charging.
• Once Alternative Fuel Corridor (AFC) thresholds are complete, states may distribute remaining NEVI funds to any publicly available EV charging hub.
• Partner with Qmerit, the industry leader in EV charging solutions, to get started on your electrification journey.

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is accelerating faster than ever, with over 7.3 million registered plug-in vehicles in the U.S. as of October 2025. As EV adoption surges, businesses, property owners, and fleet managers are facing a critical decision: adapt now or risk falling behind.

Enter the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program, a cornerstone of the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), designed to build a nationwide network of 500,000 public EV chargers.

But here’s the exciting part—recent updates in 2025 have streamlined the program, slashing red tape and making it easier than ever to access funding for on-site EV charging installations.

Whether you’re managing commercial properties, multifamily housing, or a fleet operation, this is your moment to electrify. In this article, we’ll explore the NEVI Program’s evolution, why the timing couldn’t be better for on-site charging, and how partnering with Qmerit can turn these opportunities into reality.

Understanding the NEVI Program and Its Evolution for Public EV Charging Stations

The NEVI Formula Program is a $5 billion initiative distributing formula grants to states from 2022 to 2026, focused on deploying EV chargers along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs) to enable seamless long-distance travel and public access.

Key standards include stations spaced every 50 miles, equipped with at least four 150 kW DC fast chargers per site for a total of 600 kW capacity, and maintaining 97% uptime with open-access payment options.

Progress has been steady but initially slow. As of mid-2025, only 148 chargers were operational across 12 states, with 84% of funds unobligated due to cumbersome regulations.

That changed dramatically in August 2025 under the Trump Administration, when the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued revised guidance. These updates minimized administrative hurdles, such as extensive community engagement and non-statutory requirements for labor standards, environmental siting, and preferences for disadvantaged communities.

States now have more leeway in station spacing, fund allocation to public roads, and supporting owner-operated sites— all aimed at speeding up deployments.

NEVI Program Snapshot (as of October 2025):

• 121 stations energized across 16 states
  • 14 states have more than one operational location
  • Click to view an interactive map of NEVI funded charging sites
• Average price: $0.53 per kWh (High: $0.78/kWh | Low: $0.39/kWh)
  • On average, rates have increased 8% from site launch rates to current pricing
• Average build time (from shovels to sessions): 117 days
• 56% of the locations are at gas stations or truck stops
  • 13% of all NEVI sites are at non-fueling retail locations
  • 8% are at dining establishments

This evolution marks a pivotal shift, transforming NEVI from a bureaucratic challenge into a catalyst for rapid EV infrastructure growth.

Why Now is the Ideal Time for On-Site EV Charging

With NEVI’s streamlined rules, states can now extend funding beyond corridors to any public road or accessible location once AFCs are complete, covering up to 80% of eligible costs for acquisition, installation, operation, and maintenance.

This opens the door wide for on-site charging at workplaces, retail spaces, apartments, and fleets.

The timing is impeccable for several reasons:

• Funding Accessibility: Tap into NEVI’s $5 billion pool, plus $2.5 billion in complementary Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) grants for corridor and community charging.
• Market Momentum: EV sales are booming, driven by incentives like the 30C tax credit for commercial installations, making on-site chargers a smart investment to attract EV owners.
• Reduced Barriers: Post-2025 revisions mean quicker approvals—states must update plans within 30 days, unlocking funds faster and resuming paused projects.
• Real Momentum Building: Nationwide, awards have been issued in 38 states, signaling accelerated growth. Pennsylvania already has 86 active projects across 43 counties, and California is advancing through multiple award rounds.

The Advantages of On-Site EV Charging for Your Business

On-site EV charging isn’t just about compliance; it’s a strategic upgrade that delivers tangible benefits.

From Level 2 chargers for daily workplace use to DC fast chargers for high-traffic retail, these installations can integrate seamlessly with solar panels and battery storage, enhancing energy efficiency and grid resilience.

Here are the key advantages:

• Cost Savings: Leverage charging rebates & incentives, and lower operational costs—fleets can slash fuel expenses while qualifying for NEVI funding to offset up to 80% of installation.
• Sustainability Boost: Align with decarbonization goals, appealing to eco-conscious customers, employees, and investors who prioritize green initiatives.
• Scalability and Flexibility: Start with a few stations and expand as needs grow, especially with NEVI’s shift toward public-access sites.
• Safety and Compliance: Professional installations ensure adherence to National Electrical Code (NEC) standards, mitigating risks like electrical hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the NEVI program?

The NEVI Formula Program is a $5 billion federal initiative to deploy 500,000 public EV chargers along designated corridors and public roads.

Is NEVI funding still available?

Yes, billions in NEVI funding remain available and are being accelerated following 2025 program revisions.

What can NEVI funds be used for?

Funds cover up to 80% of costs for acquiring, installing, operating, and maintaining public-access EV chargers meeting federal standards. NEVI funds can be used for “make-ready” work as well as EV charging hardware and software.

How to get NEVI funding?

Apply through your state’s Department of Transportation via their EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan, typically through competitive solicitations.

What are the additional state requirements?

States may add requirements like local permitting, workforce rules, or bidding preferences, but 2025 federal updates minimized non-statutory mandates. You can look for your state’s standards here.

Partner with Qmerit for EV Charging Installation

When it comes to turning NEVI opportunities into successful on-site installations, Qmerit stands out as the premier choice. As North America’s largest network of certified electricians, we’ve completed over 770,000 EV installations, earning a 9.4/10 customer satisfaction rating and an NPS score of 82!

Our expertise shines in turnkey solutions from site assessments and permitting to installation, maintenance, and warranty support, all while integrating with utilities, automakers, and OEMs to maximize your incentives.

Choosing Qmerit means:

• Nationwide Reach: Our extensive network ensures seamless execution for multi-site projects, navigating local permits and inspections without delays.
• Incentive Optimization: We guide you through available incentives, rebates, and tax credits to help you secure the best funding.
• Proven Reliability: Qmerit is recommended by automakers, EV charger manufacturers, utilities, businesses, and homeowners alike.

Ready to electrify? Qmerit makes it seamless—contact us to navigate funding and start your installation today.