NEVI Program Shifts, Rideshare Growth, and the Future of EV Charging — Loren McDonald of Paren

Grid Connections

Summary

In this Grid Connections episode, host Chase sits down with Loren McDonald, Chief Analyst at Paren, to unpack the latest National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) developments shaping the EV charging industry. They explore how recent policy shifts and federal decisions are influencing state-by-state rollouts—revealing why some states are revving forward while others tap the brakes. Loren highlights how rideshare adoption is driving DC fast charger demand and offers insights on charging deserts that still need infrastructure. They also discuss the evolving role of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, how reliability standards are improving under NEVI, and what rising EV adoption means for the future of long-distance travel.
Watch the full episode of this video podcast on Youtube

Takeaways

1. Over 1,000 NEVI sites awarded: More than 1,000 potential fast-charging locations have been selected across 37 states, though some remain in contract negotiations.
2. Political and procedural divides: Several states are pushing NEVI projects forward, while others have paused due to leadership changes or internal policy interpretations.
3. High rideshare utilization: In certain urban areas, rideshare drivers already account for up to 25% of all DC fast-charger usage, a figure expected to rise further.
4. Joint Office staffing cuts: Recent reductions at the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation may slow technical assistance, but do not eliminate NEVI’s allocated funding.
5. Scoring rubrics matter: From site amenities to cost-sharing ratios, each state’s RFP scoring criteria can significantly impact which organizations win funding.
6. Convenience store dominance: Large chains like Loves and Pilot often lead NEVI bids, creating better-lit, more reliable charging sites that improve the overall EV driver experience.

Links from the Episode

• Check out this recent episode of Tom Moloughney's State of Charge speaking with Bill Ferro, CTO of Paren.
  • You can also listen to our recent interview with Bill Ferro or watch it on youtube.
• EV Charging Summit & Expo that the Paren team will be at in March.

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NEVI, EV charging, infrastructure, federal policy, rideshare, rural charging, electric vehicles, charging deserts, state responses, industry trends, DCFC, DC Fast Charging