Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the fiscal year 2024 budget, and a greener future is on the horizon.
With a $79 billion budget, a portion will be allocated to improving the electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure for the public, the Michigan Clean Fleet Initiative, and transitioning the state’s fleet to EVs.
“Today, I am proud to introduce my executive budget proposal to lower costs, grow our economy, and build a brighter future for anyone who wants to call Michigan home,” said Governor Whitmer in a press release.
The Future of Mobility and Electrification
One of Governor Whitmer’s goals is to “put Michigan in the lead on future mobility and electrification with a focus on developing our charging infrastructure and electrifying state fleets.”
According to the press release, the fiscal year 2024 budget will help achieve this goal by:
Using $65 million to expand Michigan’s EV charging infrastructure network and access.
Allocating $45 million for the Michigan Clean Fleet Initiative to support local governments and businesses transitioning their vehicle fleet to electric vehicles and clean fuels.
Using $10 million to begin the transition the of State of Michigan’s fleet to electric vehicles.
And allocating $150 million to help modernize school district bus fleets to EVs with fund-matching grants.
“Investments in EV infrastructure, especially for public charging, public transit, and home charger and panel upgrades, will benefit communities across the state. said Dr. Laura Sherman, President of the Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council in a press release.
The improvement to EV infrastructure should help push more EV adoption into Michigan.
As of December 31, 2021, 17,460 EVs were registered in the state, compared to California, which had 563,070 registered, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
