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Jessie Kochaver
Newly announced formula funding from U.S. Department of Transportation to accelerate Oregon’s EV market
Environment Oregon
PORTLAND, Oregon — The U.S. Department of Transportation announced Thursday that Oregon will receive over $7.7 million for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Lack of available electric vehicle charging is a major barrier preventing people from making the switch to an electric car. This new funding will create a better network of EV charging across Oregon and help address climate pollution by growing the EV market.
Environment Oregon estimates that Oregon will need an additional 1,278 fast chargers and 20,975 Level 2 chargers by 2030 to meet anticipated demand. Level 2 chargers plug into a 240 volt outlet like a washer/dryer unit and can fully charge a vehicle in three to eight hours. In addition to installing more EV charging in Oregon, policymakers can do more to bring down the upfront cost of EVs, according to Environment Oregon.
Jessie Kochaver, Climate Associate with Environment Oregon issued the following statement:
“This electric vehicle infrastructure money will allow Oregon to build the charging stations needed by the rising adoption of electric vehicles across the state. There are more than 36,000 electric vehicles on the road in Oregon, and this number increases every day. Expanding the network of electric vehicle charging stations across the state will make it more convenient, affordable and enjoyable for future and current electric vehicle owners to get around.”
“Fossil fuel-powered transportation is the largest contributor of carbon emissions in Oregon. To clean our air and make meaningful progress against climate change, transitioning from gasoline-powered to electric vehicles is a must. This opportunity to build a national network of electric vehicle charging stations is an exciting step towards a zero emission future. Restoring the electric vehicle tax credit is the next step Congress should take to ensure these cars are affordable, allowing the electric vehicle market to continue to grow.”
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