Casten Announces $114M In Federal Funding For EV Charging Stations

DOWNERS GROVE — Illinois will soon benefit from more than $114 million in federal investments to increase access to electric vehicle charging stations throughout the state, Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) announced.

The funding was awarded through the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program, authorized by the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, a membership of the Chicago region’s 275 cities, towns and villages, was awarded over $14 million for community charging stations. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will receive $100 million for heavy-duty transportation and freight charging stations.

At least six communities in the 6th Congressional District – Palos Park, Hickory Hills, Countryside, Darien, and Chicago Ridge – are expected to benefit from this critical funding, Casten said in a news release.

“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, folks across the 6th District and throughout Illinois will see new electric vehicle charging stations installed in high-traffic areas, publicly accessible facilities, and more,” Casten said. “I’m proud to see this federal funding come to Illinois to expand our electric vehicle charging infrastructure and further cement Illinois’ reputation as a leader in innovation, clean energy, and technology.”

In total, the funding is expected to result in more than 200 new electric vehicle charging stations and more than 730 new electric vehicle charging ports across Illinois.

“This grant will allow investment in diverse communities who are preparing for transportation electrification through our EV Readiness Program and support the growth of a network of community charging throughout the region. Geneva Mayor Kevin Burnsaids, chair of the environment and energy committee for the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus. “We are grateful for this opportunity.”