Publication Spotlight: Crowdfunding Approach to Delivering Equitable EV Infrastructure


The Build America Center is shining a light on one of our recently published research reports: Exploring the Potential of a Crowdfunding Program to Achieve Equitable EV Charging Infrastructure.

This report examines the viability of crowdfunding as a new method of funding EV charging infrastructure to meet the current need for charging networks and compliance with Justice 40. This research provides valuable insights into one of the most pressing challenges of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution: equitable access to charging infrastructure. As transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to EVs is vital for addressing climate change. However, EV adoption alone is not enough if charging stations are inequitably distributed, leaving disadvantaged communities behind. This paper explores how crowdfunding can help bridge that gap, ensuring that federal investments, such as those guided by the Justice40 Initiative, can be effectively deployed to meet the needs of underserved areas.

The paper delves into the complexities of EV charging infrastructure, highlighting the technical, social, and economic barriers that exist in its widespread deployment. It emphasizes the importance of location planning to ensure accessibility while also accounting for diverse community needs. Through an analysis of crowdfunding as a potential solution, the paper shows how this innovative funding approach could support equitable infrastructure by mobilizing community involvement and democratizing investment. The integration of social equity considerations is crucial for making the EV transition more inclusive and addressing the disparities exacerbated by current systems.

Read the paper here:

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