Louisiana Embraces New Legislation to Incorporate Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
In a progressive move, Louisiana has implemented a fresh set of regulations governing the operation of fueling stations catering to electric vehicles (EVs).
Governor John Bel Edwards signed Act No. 293 into law on June 12, marking the enactment of House Bill 60, which was introduced by Michael Echols (R) during the state Legislature’s regular session in 2023.
The newly established legislation includes provisions pertaining to the distribution of electricity and the installation of EV supply equipment required for charging EVs. These additions address the absence of any previous mention in state law regarding devices used for measuring or metering electricity at fueling stations. It was imperative to rectify this oversight in order to align the regulations with the advancements in alternative vehicle technologies.
Furthermore, the law designates the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry as the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing EV charging stations. The agency, which plays a crucial role in administering and enforcing regulations relating to agriculture and forestry throughout the state, will extend its jurisdiction to encompass this emerging domain.
More EV Charging Stations on the Way
Louisiana has positioned itself to receive a substantial funding allocation of $73 million over the next few years, designated for the deployment of EV charging infrastructure by the Department of Transportation and Development.
The state has formulated a comprehensive plan to gradually introduce EV supply equipment that adheres to the Federal Highway Administration’s standards for direct current fast chargers. These chargers, with a minimum electric capacity of 600 kilowatts, will be strategically placed at intervals of approximately 50 miles, located within one mile of interstate exits or highway intersections along the alternative fuel corridors.
EV Charging Stations for Big Rigs Still Being Planned
The Louisiana State Plan for Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment, which was devised in the previous year, aims to prioritize the construction of an expansive EV charging network across the state’s 943 miles of interstates. This emphasis on interstates is driven by the critical role they play in facilitating the movement of freight trucks, even though the federal grants allocated for EV charging infrastructure are primarily intended for passenger vehicles. Heavy trucks necessitate significantly higher power demands, measured in megawatts, compared to the relatively lower kilowatt requirements of passenger vehicles.
The state is actively encouraging the incorporation of “pull-through spots” in EV charging stations, recognizing their potential to support the transportation of freight by accommodating heavy truck EVs.
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