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What Trump’s "Unleashing American Energy" Executive Order Means for EV Charging

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On his first day in office, President Donald Trump signed dozens of Executive Orders (EOs), signaling a clear departure from the Biden Administration’s policies. Among them, the "Unleashing American Energy" EO has sparked significant concern within the EV charging industry. While it represents a pivot in federal policy, stakeholders are cautiously optimistic about the future of EV incentives and investments.

 

The Contentious Section 7: Terminating the Green New Deal


Of particular interest to EV charging advocates is Section 7 of the EO, which imposes a 90-day pause and review on disbursements from programs like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program and the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program. Both programs were enacted under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to accelerate the deployment of EV charging infrastructure nationwide.

This pause has raised concerns about the stability of federal incentives for EV charging. However, it’s worth noting that such reviews are a typical course of action for a new administration aiming to align policies with its broader agenda.

 

Why the Sky Is Not Falling


Despite the concerns, many in the EV charging industry believe the situation isn’t as dire as it may seem. Here’s why:


  1. Bipartisan Roots of Key Programs


    Both the NEVI and CFI programs were established through the BIL, a piece of legislation that received strong bipartisan support in Congress. This means that the Administration cannot unilaterally roll back these programs without congressional approval. Many senators and representatives—particularly those from districts benefiting from EV investments—remain supportive of these initiatives.


  2. Momentum of Private Investment


    Federal incentives under the BIL and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) have already catalyzed a significant wave of private sector activity. As of early December, these programs have incentivized:


With these investments already in motion, it’s unlikely that the Administration will seek to completely dismantle the programs driving this economic growth.


  • Over 400,000 private sector jobs

  • Over $45 billion in private investment in EV assembly, components, and charger manufacturing.

  • Uncertainty Is Temporary


    The EO’s 90-day review period is likely to result in some changes, rescissions, or modifications to existing incentives. However, the fundamental support for EV infrastructure, jobs, and American competitiveness is expected to remain intact.

 

A Shifting Federal Landscape


The "Unleashing American Energy" EO reflects the Trump Administration’s broader policy goals: reducing government intervention and prioritizing market-driven solutions. However, many stakeholders believe that the mammoth investments and job creation spurred by NEVI and CFI programs make them too significant to completely unwind.

Additionally, there is strong congressional support for these programs, particularly among members who recognize the economic benefits they bring to their districts. The Administration is unlikely to face smooth sailing in any attempt to significantly disrupt programs tied to the BIL or IRA.

 

What Comes Next?


The next few weeks and months will provide greater clarity about the future of EV incentives. Industry stakeholders are focused on:


  • Educating Policymakers: Advocacy efforts will aim to demonstrate the value of federal incentives for American jobs, investment, and global competitiveness.

  • Monitoring Changes: Stakeholders will closely follow updates on which programs and incentives may face rescissions or modifications.

  • Continuing Momentum: Regardless of federal uncertainty, the private sector is expected to maintain its commitment to EV infrastructure development, driven by strong market demand and state-level support.

 

A Message for EV Stakeholders


While the policy landscape has shifted, the long-term trajectory for EV charging and electrification remains promising. Federal programs like NEVI and CFI have laid a strong foundation, and the private sector has shown its willingness to invest in the future of electric mobility.


For now, it’s important for stakeholders to stay engaged, advocate for the value of these incentives, and focus on the broader benefits of EV adoption: creating jobs, reducing emissions, and strengthening American competitiveness.


At Charged Up!, we keep businesses and individuals informed about the evolving EV landscape. For more updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter at chargeduppro.com/subscribe.

 

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