New York Launches Working Group to Fast-Track EV Adoption and Charging Infrastructure

New York State has announced plans to establish a dedicated interagency working group to expedite the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and support the broader adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) across all transportation sectors, according to a May 28 news release from the Department of Environmental Conservation. The initiative aligns with the state’s climate mandates and responds to shifting federal policy conditions by fostering cohesive, cross-agency collaboration.

The newly formed group brings together the Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, New York Power Authority, and seven other state agencies. It will work in partnership with private industry, utilities, and vehicle manufacturers to address existing infrastructure constraints, workforce development needs, and market adoption challenges.

Key priorities include the creation of a unified strategy for the accelerated deployment of public and private EV charging infrastructure, with targeted efforts to expand fast-charging networks along major travel corridors and in underserved areas. The group will also assess the implications of growing EV adoption on grid reliability and recommend measures to streamline permitting and regulatory procedures for charging installations. Funding opportunities through the state’s proposed $1 billion climate initiative and proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative will be leveraged to support these objectives.

In addition to EV infrastructure expansion, the working group is tasked with advancing ZEV market readiness. This entails evaluating existing incentive programs, proposing enhancements to encourage wider vehicle adoption across passenger, medium-duty, and heavy-duty fleets, and conducting outreach campaigns to address public concerns around vehicle costs and driving range.

The initiative further includes collaboration with vehicle and equipment manufacturers to increase in-state production capacity and develop a resilient supply chain for essential components such as batteries and charging equipment. Workforce readiness will also be a central focus, with a review of current training programs and recommendations to support emerging occupations in the ZEV and clean transportation sectors.

The announcement follows New York’s recent participation in the U.S. Climate Alliance’s Affordable Clean Cars Coalition, positioning the state to maintain momentum on clean vehicle standards amid national regulatory uncertainty.

New York’s initiative comes amid policy changes under the Trump administration, from halting federal funding for charging infrastructure to rolling back vehicle emission standards.