The United States launched a five-year, $5 billion plan that will improve the nationwide electric vehicle charging network

IT House Reported Feb. 10 that the U.S. government announced a five-year, $5 billion plan to perfect the country's electric vehicle charging network, using funds approved by the bipartisan infrastructure law signed last year, The Verge reported.

These funds represent a broader effort by the U.S. government to reduce carbon emissions and combat anthropogenic climate change. Despite the increase in electric vehicle sales over the past few years, at least 25% of carbon emissions come from the transportation sector, most of which is exhaust emissions.

Congress approved $7.5 billion for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, of which $5 billion will be used to create a "network of electric vehicle charging stations along the Alternative Fuel Corridors, particularly along the interstate system." The Alternative Fuel Corridor, as defined by the Federal Highway Administration, includes approximately 165,722 miles (approximately 1161.95 kilometers) of the National Highway System, covering 49 states and the District of Columbia.

IT House understands that U.S. states must submit applications to the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation by Aug. 1, and the Federal Highway Administration will approve eligible programs by September 30, providing $615 million in fiscal year 2022.

The U.S. government said a second competitive grant program "designed to further increase EV charging opportunities across the country, including rural and underserved communities," will be announced later this year.