96% of Federal EV Charging Funds From 2021-2022 Are Unspent

Why It Matters

The idle federal capital hampers the rollout of a nationwide fast‑charging network, slowing EV adoption and limiting the United States’ ability to meet climate and energy‑security goals.

Key Takeaways

• 96% of NEVI funds from 2021‑2022 remain unspent
• Only one‑third of allocated money is obligated to projects
• New “Made‑in‑America” rule slows state procurement of chargers
• 2025 saw record 18,000 fast chargers installed despite funding gaps
• Limited public fast chargers keep EV charging costs higher than gasoline

Pulse Analysis

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program was designed to accelerate the United States’ fast‑charging network, yet a Sierra Club audit reveals that 96% of the $7.5 billion earmarked for 2021‑2022 is still sitting on the books. The bulk of the shortfall stems from a combination of bureaucratic inertia and the Trump‑era “Made‑in‑America” requirement, which forces states to source chargers from domestic manufacturers. This rule, while intended to boost U.S. production, has introduced supply‑chain delays and inflated costs, leaving many states hesitant to commit the remaining funds.

The funding gap directly impacts the EV ecosystem. Public fast chargers remain scarce, especially along interstate corridors, forcing drivers to rely on slower home‑based Level 2 chargers. Consequently, the cost per mile for a fast‑charge session can exceed the price of gasoline, eroding one of the key value propositions of electric vehicles. Despite the funding bottleneck, 2025 saw a record 18,000 fast chargers installed, driven largely by private‑sector investment and state‑level pilot programs that navigated the procurement hurdles.

Looking ahead, unlocking the dormant NEVI capital will require policy adjustments, such as relaxing the domestic‑production mandate or providing clearer guidance on eligible equipment. States that can swiftly obligate funds will likely attract additional private capital, creating a virtuous cycle of infrastructure growth and EV adoption. For manufacturers, the pending demand represents a lucrative market, provided they can align production timelines with state procurement cycles. Accelerating the deployment of fast chargers is essential for meeting the Biden administration’s 2030 emissions targets and for maintaining the United States’ competitive edge in the global EV market.