- Published on
Wisconsin is adding 42 new EV fast-charging stations – here’s where
- Authors
- Name
- DeepHorus
Wisconsin is awarding $25 million in federal funding to build 42 new DC fast-charging stations across the state.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced the awards on September 8, 2026, expanding EV charging beyond interstate corridors. The projects will add at least 168 fast-charging ports in 42 communities.
The funding comes from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. NEVI aims to fill gaps in the national charging network and reduce range anxiety. Wisconsin has now awarded $62.1 million in NEVI funding to 120 charging locations.
Locations include Kwik Trips in Belgium, Coloma, Prairie du Chien, River Falls, Sturgeon Bay, and Whitewater. Hotels in Boscobel, Dodgeville, Eagle River, Oconomowoc, Richland Center, and Watertown also made the list, plus a Woodman's in Madison. Sites range from gas stations and restaurants to grocery stores where drivers can run errands.
Because NEVI rules require each station to have at least four CCS ports delivering 150 kW simultaneously, the awards will add at least 168 fast-charging ports. Chargers will include models from Autel, Gilbarco, and Tesla, according to WisDOT. WisDOT did not say how many new sites will also offer NACS connectors; 93% of current online chargers have them.
The latest round targets busy roads including US 10, US 12, US 18, US 45, US 61, and US 63, plus 12 state highways. Wisconsin has met NEVI's rule to fund stations no more than 50 miles apart along Alternative Fuel Corridors. That lets the state use federal money on secondary routes previously ineligible.
"From the start, we've planned an EV charging network that will benefit both EV drivers and Wisconsin communities," said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. She said stations provide fast charging at convenient places where drivers can do errands. Governor Tony Evers linked the expansion to high gas prices and helping families save on fuel.
The awards follow a political fight over NEVI funding. The Trump administration tried to freeze the money in February 2025, prompting Wisconsin to join a multistate lawsuit. A federal judge blocked the administration from withholding the funds in June 2025.
Federal grants can cover up to 80% of eligible costs, with recipients providing at least a 20% match. So far, 26 of Wisconsin's previously awarded NEVI stations are operational, and the state reports strong use. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law expires at the end of September, and Congress has yet to act.
