HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is further expanding the states EV charging network by adding 11 more federally funded fast charging stations throughout the state. Six developers were selected to receive up to $8.6 million for these stations, one of which will be in Oak Grove.

On a previous wave of development, Francis Energy Charging, LLC was awarded $855,276, which went toward building a charging station at the Starbucks in Hopkinsville. Now, Oak Grove will have an EV charging station at the Flying J #662. Pilot Travel Centers is the developer behind this one and was awarded $413,174.

In total, Kentucky has now approved 48 fast charging stations from 11 developers for a total of $32.9 million in federal formula funds.

“Kentucky is continuing to lead the charge on the EV front,” said Gov. Beshear. “Having a robust charging network means peace of mind for EV drivers who don’t have to worry about whether they’ll find a convenient place to charge up. These fast charging stations are an investment in everyone who lives here, works here and visits our great state. And they will help us welcome more and more people to our New Kentucky Home.”

According to a news release from the governor’s office, the stations were designed to be along Kentucky’s interstates and parkways designated as Alternative Fuel Corridors, supporting long-distance driving for drivers across the commonwealth, as well as travelers visiting the Bluegrass State. The funding comes from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program established under the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Private developers must design, build, own, operate and maintain fast charging stations for five years after construction is complete. Each developer must fund at least 20% of the construction and operational costs. Each station must have at least four charging ports of 150 kilowatts each, be accessible to the public 24 hours a day/seven days a week, and work with most EV models.

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