The Trump administration announced on Thursday that it is pausing funding for the Biden-era National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, a $5 billion initiative aimed at building a nationwide network of electric vehicle (EV) chargers.
The decision marks the latest effort by the Trump-Vance administration to roll back what it views as costly and inefficient green energy policies implemented under the previous administration.
In a letter to transportation officials, the Department of Transportation (DOT) stated that it is halting new funding obligations for the NEVI program to ensure it aligns with current policies and priorities. While reimbursements for existing commitments will continue, no new projects will be funded during the review process.
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The NEVI program, established in November 2021 as part of President Joe Biden’s climate agenda, aimed to deploy 500,000 EV chargers across the U.S. by 2030. However, the initiative has been plagued by delays and inefficiencies, raising questions about its feasibility and cost-effectiveness. Despite the allocation of $5 billion in taxpayer funds, the program has struggled to gain traction, with critics arguing that it prioritizes ideological goals over practical solutions.
The Trump administration’s decision to halt funding reflects its broader skepticism of Biden’s green energy policies, which have faced lukewarm consumer demand and logistical challenges.
Since returning to the White House on January 20, President Donald Trump has made it a priority to dismantle Biden-era energy regulations and promote American energy independence. Earlier this week, Trump signed an executive order to “unleash” domestic energy production, emphasizing the importance of affordable and reliable energy for American families and businesses.
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On Wednesday, Trump’s Department of Energy Chair, Chris Wright, signed his first secretarial order, initiating the rollback of several Biden-era clean energy regulations. These actions align with Trump’s campaign promises to revitalize the U.S. auto industry and repeal what he called Biden’s “insane” EV policies.
“The American auto industry should be focused on innovation and competitiveness, not forced compliance with unrealistic mandates,” Trump said during a recent rally. “We’re going to put American workers and consumers first, not radical environmental agendas.”
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The Trump administration’s moves have sparked backlash from green energy activists and companies, who have ramped up lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill to protect Biden’s clean energy tax credits and subsidies. A coalition of environmental groups and EV industry stakeholders held a lobbying event Wednesday, urging lawmakers to preserve the Biden administration’s climate policies.
However, critics argue that these policies have failed to deliver tangible benefits for most Americans.
The pause on NEVI funding is expected to be part of a broader review of Biden-era energy and transportation policies. The Trump administration has signaled its commitment to promoting energy independence, supporting traditional energy sectors, and ensuring that federal programs are cost-effective and aligned with national priorities.
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