Federal Approval Secured for Alaska’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan
Alaska Energy Authority began supporting a charging corridor between Anchorage and Fairbanks with stations installed at Three Bears Alaska in Healy.
Photo Credit: Scott Rhode | Alaska Business
The third Alaska National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) plan was approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), securing $11 million in federal funding to continue expanding the state’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure in FY2025.
The FHWA funding enables the Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) and Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) to complete Phase 1 of NEVI-compliant charging stations along the Alternative Fuel Corridor between Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Plan Shaped With Alaskans’ Input
“This funding allows us to leverage available federal resources to directly benefit Alaskans,” says AEA Executive Director Curtis W. Thayer. “Developing EV charging infrastructure ensures our state remains connected and is well-prepared for the future, while also addressing Alaska’s unique transportation challenges.”
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DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson adds, “The approval of the FY25 NEVI Plan is a significant step forward for Alaska’s transportation network. Expanding EV charging infrastructure gives Alaskans more travel options while the department continues to build a reliable and resilient transportation system across the state for all users.”
The Phase 1 charging stations include at least four and up to eight Combined Charging System ports, each capable of delivering 150kw. Once the Alternative Fuel Corridor is fully built out and meets FHWA criteria, anticipated at the end of 2025, the program will transition to Phase 2. This phase will focus on connecting smaller urban areas, rural communities on the road system, and Alaska’s road network to Canada. It will also extend infrastructure along the Alaska Marine Highway System to serve coastal communities.
This latest funding allocation builds on the $30 million designated for fiscal years 2022, 2023, and 2024, bringing the total federal investment in Alaska’s EV charging infrastructure to $41 million. The FY25 NEVI Plan outlines strategies to increase reliable, fast EV charging, ensuring a consistent charging experience for residents and travelers. It also includes renewed approval for discretionary exceptions, providing greater flexibility for placement of charging stations between Anchorage and Fairbanks. These exceptions will specifically benefit areas like Wasilla to Trapper Creek, Trapper Creek to Cantwell, and Healy to Nenana.
Alaska is expected to receive $52 million over five years, with updated plans to be submitted annually to the FHWA detailing how the funds will be spent.
Photo Credit: Scott Rhode | Alaska Business
AEA and DOT&PF say input from Alaskans during the planning process has proven very valuable. Community feedback has played a crucial role in shaping a plan that effectively addresses local needs and priorities.
The NEVI program, established through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, provides dedicated federal funding to states to support the strategic deployment of EV Level 3 Direct Current Fast Charging infrastructure. The goal is to create an interconnected, reliable charging network, focusing on locations near interstate highway exits.
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