Cherokee Nation Receives Federal EV Charging Grant

The Cherokee Nation has secured a $10.7 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to install 112 electric vehicle (EV) charging ports across 12 strategic locations within the community. This initiative, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to ensure that all residents are within 25 miles of a charging station, promoting convenient access to clean energy solutions. The funding will support the installation of chargers near parks and health centers, significantly enhancing the existing infrastructure, which includes a few operational stations already in place. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. emphasized the tribe's commitment to sustainability, with a goal to reduce their carbon footprint by 25% by 2027. The project aligns with broader efforts to bolster EV infrastructure nationwide, contributing to the installation of 11,500 charging ports by 2030. This investment is seen as a crucial step in facilitating the growing demand for electric vehicle usage within the reservation and beyond.