Seattle startup Electric Era lands $5.1M in U.S. grants to install freeway chargers in Washington

Seattle-based startup Electric Era has secured a major win in the race to expand electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, landing $5.05 million in National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program funding. This funding will be used to install six cutting-edge DC fast-charging stations along Washington state’s interstates and highways, marking a significant step forward in the state’s push for sustainable transportation.

The Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) awarded the funding as part of a larger $12.16 million initiative to install EV chargers at 13 locations across the state. Electric Era is joining an impressive lineup of recipients, including Energy Northwest, a utility consortium, EV Gateway, Tesla, and EVgo. This diverse group of companies underscores the collaborative effort to accelerate EV adoption and reduce carbon emissions.

Electric Era’s innovative approach to EV charging sets it apart. The company specializes in DC fast-charging systems that integrate massive battery storage to deliver and store power efficiently. This technology not only ensures faster charging times but also addresses one of the biggest challenges in EV infrastructure: grid capacity. By storing energy in batteries, Electric Era’s systems can provide consistent, reliable power even during peak demand periods, making them a game-changer for the industry.

The funding comes at a critical time. In January, the Trump administration abruptly halted NEVI funding, which had been appropriated by Congress in 2021 to build out EV charging along the nation’s major highways. This decision sparked outrage among states and environmental advocates, who argued that it undermined efforts to combat climate change and promote clean energy. Washington state, along with others, filed a lawsuit, and on Monday, a federal judge ruled that the funds had been illegally withheld. This ruling has paved the way for states like Washington to move forward with their EV infrastructure plans.

Electric Era’s success is not its first foray into the EV charging space. The company previously received funding from Washington state’s Climate Commitment Act to install public chargers, demonstrating its commitment to advancing sustainable transportation solutions. With this latest injection of NEVI funding, Electric Era is poised to make an even greater impact.

The installation of these six charging stations will not only benefit EV drivers but also contribute to Washington’s broader environmental goals. By expanding access to fast, reliable charging, the state is making it easier for residents and visitors to switch to electric vehicles, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. This is a win-win for both the environment and the economy, as the growth of the EV industry creates jobs and drives innovation.

Electric Era’s CEO expressed excitement about the funding, stating, “This is a pivotal moment for our company and for the future of EV infrastructure in Washington. Our technology is designed to meet the needs of today’s drivers while preparing for the demands of tomorrow. We’re thrilled to be part of this transformative project.”

As the EV market continues to grow, the need for robust charging infrastructure becomes increasingly urgent. Companies like Electric Era are at the forefront of this transition, developing solutions that are not only efficient but also scalable and sustainable. With the NEVI funding now secured, Electric Era is ready to roll out its next-generation charging stations, bringing the state one step closer to a cleaner, greener future.

This development is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. As Washington leads the way in EV infrastructure, other states are likely to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that could accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles nationwide. The future of transportation is electric, and with companies like Electric Era driving the charge, that future looks brighter than ever.

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