South Dakota EV Fast Charging Plan

About Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations
What is the South Dakota EV Fast Charging Plan?
The South Dakota Electric Vehicle (EV) Fast Charging Plan is a framework to guide the creation of a network of EV fast chargers throughout South Dakota. Once completed, the EV charging network in South Dakota will connect to the national network to provide convenient, reliable, affordable, and accessible charging for all EV drivers. The Plan is a Federal requirement in order to obtain National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program funding from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
NEVI Program
- A new Federal program authorized under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
- Given the expected growth in EVs and the need for more charging stations across the country, the Federal government is using this program to jump start the investment in charging infrastructure.
- The program will provide funds to states to install DC fast chargers along designated corridors.
September 14, 2022: The Federal Highway Administration has released Biden-Harris Administration Announces Approval of First 35 State Plans to Build Out EV Charging Infrastructure Across 53,000 Miles of Highways
NEVI PLAN APPROVAL LETTER
Why Should South Dakota Plan for EVs?
Connecting to a national network of chargers will continue to support the state economy by supporting visitors to the state from across the nation. Given the expected growth of EVs manufactured by national automakers, the adoption of EVs is anticipated to increase.
US EV Sales Projection
Pressure is being put on the EV market as consumer demand for EVs increases and the cost of production of batteries decreases.
Global Share of Total Annual Passenger Vehicle Sales by Drive Train
Types of EV Chargers
The EV Fast Charging Plan will focus on the placement of Direct Current Fast Chargers (DCFC) which are also known as Level 3 fast chargers. These can provide 100 miles or more of range in 30 minutes or less. Most of the chargers that currently exist in South Dakota are Level 1 and 2 chargers, which are significantly slower and are currently found in homes and commercial areas around the country.
EV Charging Locations in South Dakota
South Dakota strives to provide reliable and convenient EV fast charging across the state. We want to join other states to create a convenient and accessible EV fast-charging network by connecting to the national grid.
SD Chargers
Out of the 59 public charging locations that currently exist in the state, only one location meets the current NEVI Federal requirements.
SD EVs
More than 1,400 electric vehicles are currently registered in South Dakota.

Federal Requirements for Funding
The EV Fast Charging Plan is a requirement to obtain NEVI Program funding from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Available Funding
In Fiscal Year 2022, $4 million in Federal funding is available to South Dakota, with a total of $29 million through Fiscal Year 2026.
Eligibility
We want to take advantage of Federal funds, which is a key driver for the development of this Plan. To be eligible for the federal program, South Dakota must submit the EV Fast Charging Plan by Aug. 1, 2022.
EV Resources
- South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR)
Volkswagen EVCS Program - Joint Office of Energy and Transportation
- USDOT’s Electric Vehicles & Rural Transportation Webpage
- FHWA’s Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program
Surrounding States
EV FAQ's
In-Person Public Meeting Materials
SDDOT held two public meetings to present the SD EV Fast Charging Plan process. Both meetings shared the same information, a video of the presentation and access to the slides can be found below.