St. James dubbed ‘EV ready’ community

The city of St. James, Minnesota, has earned a new electric vehicle (EV) distinction as part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Charging Smart pilot program. This is the first time the DOE has awarded the “EV Ready” designation, and nine Minnesota communities were recognized with the distinction for their work to accelerate the equitable expansion of EVs and EV charging infrastructure.

Minnesota is one of five states participating in the pilot phase of the Charging Smart program, which launched earlier this year to help local governments become leaders in EV deployment by offering free technical assistance. The program focuses on reducing EV charger costs, increasing the number of EVs in the community and ensuring equitable access to EV infrastructure for all residents.