Wireless EV Charging Gets $250M Boost: New Grant Program Aims to Make Charging Cordless and Common

The "Wireless Electric Vehicle Charging Grant Program Act of 2025" is all about making it easier to charge electric vehicles (EVs) without plugging them in. Think of it like wireless phone charging, but for cars, trucks, and even buses. The bill sets up a $250 million grant program, managed by the Secretary of Transportation and the Department of Energy, to fund projects that build, install, or upgrade wireless charging infrastructure. (SEC. 3)

Powering Up, Wirelessly

The core of this bill is getting wireless charging tech out into the real world. It prioritizes projects that put wireless chargers in places like roads, parking lots, airports, and ports (SEC. 4). The goal is to make charging EVs as easy as parking. This is not just about convenience. The bill specifically targets light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles, including fleet vehicles (think delivery trucks and buses) and even federal government fleets. (SEC. 4). The bill also requires an annual report to be sent out to the House and Senate committees, this report will include grant recipients, money given out, progress of pilot programs, safety of funded technologies, and recommendations for funding. (SEC. 4)

Real-World Rollout

Imagine a delivery driver who can top off their battery while making deliveries, or a city bus that charges while picking up passengers. That's the kind of everyday impact this bill is aiming for. It also prioritizes projects that help people in low-income or disadvantaged communities, making sure the benefits of wireless charging aren't just for the wealthy. (SEC. 7). For example, a city could use a grant to install wireless charging in a low-income neighborhood, making it easier for residents to switch to EVs and potentially reducing local air pollution. The bill also requires that grant recipients have a plan in place to engage the surrounding communities and any workers that may be impacted by the projects. (SEC. 7)

Who Gets the Grants?

This money is available to state, local, Tribal, and territorial governments, as well as transit agencies and other public authorities. (SEC. 5) The bill also prioritizes projects that are cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly. (SEC. 7). The federal government will cover up to 80% of a project's cost, with a maximum grant of $25 million per entity. (SEC. 6)

Beyond the Charger

This bill isn't just about the technology; it's also about the workforce. Grant recipients can use funds to train workers to install and maintain the wireless charging systems. (SEC. 5). Plus, the bill requires that laborers and mechanics on these projects are paid fair wages. (SEC. 7). It also prioritizes projects that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in their workforce. (SEC. 7).

Made in America

In line with the "Buy America" requirements, projects funded by this program will prioritize American-made materials and equipment, aiming to boost domestic manufacturing and create jobs. (SEC. 7) While there's a provision for waiving these requirements in certain situations, the overall focus is on supporting American businesses. The bill defines "wireless charging" as charging a battery without a physical wire, using methods like inductive charging. (SEC. 8). This is a crucial detail, ensuring that the grants are used for truly wireless technology, not just any EV charging system.

Challenges Ahead

While this bill is a big step, there are some possible bumps in the road. Making sure the wireless charging technology is compatible with all EVs and developing universal standards will be key. (SEC. 7). And, of course, there's always the potential for grant money to be misused, so careful oversight will be important. Overall, the "Wireless Electric Vehicle Charging Grant Program Act of 2025" is a significant investment in the future of transportation, aiming to make EVs more accessible, convenient, and sustainable for everyone.