January 25, 2024
Central Pines Regional Council (CPRC) is excited to announce a $3.9 million grant through the U.S Department of Energy's Ride and Drive program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This significant award will support the Team-based Evaluation, Surveying, & Training (TEST) for Real-World Charging Project, aimed at establishing a national baseline for EV charging infrastructure and enhancing its reliability and performance.
The Ride and Drive program funds projects that aim to address critical challenges that could limit accessible, reliable, and affordable EV infrastructure. With this grant, CPRC will partner with technical lead, the Idaho National Laboratory, and 26 Clean Cities Coalitions across 23 states to establish a standardized and user-friendly experience for electric vehicle charging stations. The project will also work with community-based workforce programs to train underserved community members to conduct assessments of existing EV infrastructure and develop a training program for State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) that can be implemented nationwide
"We are elated to have been chosen for this nationally significant grant award," said Lee Worsley, Executive Director of Central Pines Regional Council. "This project exemplifies Central Pines Regional Council's commitment to sustainable transportation solutions and environmental resiliency. It is a testament to the council's talented staff and our commitment to fostering innovation.”
“East TN Clean Fuels is excited to be part of this project and support Central Pines in its execution”, said Jonathan Overly of the East Tennessee Clean Fuels Coalition. “We will be able to gather some exceptional charger data from different geographical regions and across a wide gamut of styles and types of chargers.”
The TEST for Real-World Charging Project will play a vital role in improving the overall EV charging experience and promoting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. By establishing a national baseline for EV charging infrastructure, CPRC aims to eliminate barriers and ensure a seamless and efficient charging process for all electric vehicle users.
Program Contact:
Annie Lee
alee@centralpinesnc.gov