The decisions we make each day about how to get around—including the types of cars, trucks, and SUVs we drive—have a powerful impact on our environment.
Encouraging electric vehicle (EV) use will help Minnesota significantly reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, combat climate change, and improve public health. The state of Minnesota has set ambitious goals of powering 20% of the state fleet with electricity by 2027, and powering 20% of light-duty cars with electricity by 2030.
To support EV use and increase access to this cleaner technology, Minnesota needs a statewide charging network to fuel EVs—not just in the Twin Cities metro area. That’s why the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is using funds from Minnesota’s share of the national Volkswagen (VW) settlement to build charging infrastructure across the state.
In 2019, MPCA awarded more than $1.4 million in grant funds to install 22 EV fast-charging stations along highway corridors in Greater Minnesota. Over the next four years (2020-2023), the agency will invest an additional $3.5 million in EV charging stations. This next phase will expand the charging network by more than 2,500 miles, enabling EV drivers to travel longer distances throughout the state without worrying about where they can refuel.
More information: Minnesota's plan for investing VW settlement funds (MPCA)
