What’s happening: A multi-state effort to install electric vehicle charging stations along the coasts of Lake Michigan received a boost in Michigan, it was recently announced. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has awarded 17 grants totaling $905,567 to several organizations and communities along Michigan’s west coast in an effort to complete the Lake Michigan Circuit.
What it is: The
Lake Michigan Circuit is a joint initiative between Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin, in an effort to build electric vehicle infrastructure along Lake Michigan’s 1,100-mile drivable coastline. The initiative is intended to support coastal tourism within the Great Lakes region.
Why it’s important: “Michiganders who have made the transition to electric vehicles need to know accessible, reliable charging stations are available to them as they enjoy everything our state has to offer,” says EGLE Director Phil Roos. “The Lake Michigan Circuit will allow travelers to experience Lake Michigan and visit our coastal communities and attractions along and around the route. This is not only a step in building out our charging infrastructure, it’s an opportunity to offer the best new road trip for electric vehicle owners across the country.”
Where it’s going: The 17 grants totaling $905,567 will be used to install direct charge/fast charging (DCFC) stations and Level 2 chargers at recreational areas, hospitality businesses, and entertainment attractions along the coast. Grant recipients and future charging sites include Adelaide Point Qualified Opportunity Zone Business for Muskegon; Chateau Chantal Winery & Inn in Traverse City; Cloverland Electric Cooperative for Manistique and St. Ignace; City of Frankfort; City of Manistee; Red E Charging for Bridgman, Grand Haven, New Buffalo, and South Haven; City of South Haven; and Universal EV for Grand Haven, Muskegon, and South Haven.
Big picture: “The Lake Michigan Circuit perfectly aligns with our state’s vision of providing greater access to charging infrastructure for all Michiganders,” says Michigan Chief Mobility Officer Justine Johnson. “Together, we are dedicated to collaborating across state government and with our partners in education and industry to advance our promise of accessible and sustainable mobility options.”
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