Report Highlights Slow Progress on EV Charger Installation

A recent report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) suggests that the Biden administration has built only a few hundred electric vehicle (EV) chargers, despite allocating billions to support the initiative. This funding was part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program and discretionary grant programs aimed at enhancing charging and fuel infrastructure, originating from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Despite the significant $7.5 billion funding, the program reportedly had just 384 EV chargers installed by April 2025. The GAO attributes this slow progress to the absence of clearly defined performance targets that could measure success effectively.

The report mentioned, “IIJA has funded $7.5 billion for these programs for fiscal years 2022-2026.” It also noted concerns regarding how slowly charging ports have been constructed under the NEVI and CFI programs.

There are ambitious goals set for building 500,000 EV charging stations across the U.S. by 2030, but some officials reportedly question the feasibility of this target. A senior official from the Department of Transportation pointed to diversity, equity, and inclusion requirements as hindrances that complicate the rollout.

Additionally, a review of the NEVI Program suggested that after three and a half years, nearly 84% of the funds had not been legally committed. Under former President Trump, there were efforts to create a $6 billion EV infrastructure fund, according to the GAO.

The GAO report noted that the costs of EV charging infrastructure can range from $600 to $140,000 per unit, and installation expenses vary significantly by location. As it stands, around 77,000 stations are available across the U.S., with 219,000 public EV charging stations reported overall.