The transition to a zero-emission transportation future is being accelerated by the Joint Office Of Energy And Transportation. This pivotal organization is at the forefront of deploying convenient and accessible charging and refueling infrastructure across the nation. Established through the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Joint Office embodies a collaborative spirit, uniting the expertise and resources of both the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). For a deeper understanding of its formation, the Memorandum of Understanding between DOE and DOT provides comprehensive details.
Understanding the Joint Office’s Mission
The Joint Office of Energy and Transportation plays a crucial role in advancing zero-emission transportation. Its accomplishments are readily available for review, showcasing its significant impact on the sector. Fundamentally, the Joint Office acts as a central support hub, offering expertise and resources to a wide array of stakeholders and programs. These initiatives are all geared towards the common goal of establishing a robust and nationwide network that encompasses:
- Electric vehicle (EV) chargers, ensuring convenient charging access for electric vehicles.
- Zero-emission fueling infrastructure, supporting alternative fuels like hydrogen and biofuels.
- Zero-emission transit and school buses, promoting clean public transportation and reducing emissions from school fleets.
The overarching objective of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation is to streamline the buildout of this essential infrastructure network. This is achieved through the strategic alignment of resources and specialized knowledge. The Joint Office provides unified guidance, delivers vital technical assistance, and conducts in-depth analysis to support the successful implementation of several key programs:
- National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program: Spearheaded by the DOT, this program allocates $5 billion to states, facilitating the creation of a national EV charging network. This network aims to eliminate range anxiety by ensuring charging stations are strategically placed no more than 50 miles apart and within a mile of interstate exits or major highways.
- Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program: Complementing the NEVI program, this initiative offers $2.5 billion in discretionary grants. These funds are directed towards strategically deploying publicly accessible EV charging and alternative fueling infrastructure within communities, prioritizing locations where people live and work, ensuring equitable access to clean transportation options.
- Low or No Emission Vehicle Program for Transit: Another key DOT program, this initiative dedicates $5.6 billion to support the adoption of low- and no-emission transit buses. This funding accelerates the modernization of public transit fleets, reducing pollution and enhancing air quality in communities across the nation.
- Clean School Bus Program: Administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this program provides a substantial $5 billion in support of electric school bus deployments. By replacing aging diesel school buses with electric models, this program significantly reduces children’s exposure to harmful emissions and promotes healthier school environments.
The Joint Office of Energy and Transportation collaborates with a diverse range of key stakeholders across government, industry, and communities to ensure the successful rollout of these critical programs.
Explore Funding Opportunities
For those seeking financial support for zero-emission transportation projects, the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation serves as a gateway to various funding avenues. Project funding opportunities may be available through the DOE, DOT, and other governmental sources. To discover current and upcoming opportunities, please visit the funding opportunities page.
Further information about related initiatives can be found on the EV Working Group page, the news and events section for updates on the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation activities, and resources dedicated to workforce development within the clean transportation sector. For technical assistance or general inquiries, please contact us.
