On December 6, 2021, Governor Whitmer of Michigan signed Executive Directive 2021-13: Making Michigan and Electric Vehicle Powerhouse. The Order aims to help Michigan capitalize on upcoming federal funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to support economic and job development in the state, while improving air quality and achieving state climate goals through transportation electrification.
The Directive directs several state agencies to ensure that infrastructure funds are leveraged to save Michiganders time and money on their commutes, and to support Michigan businesses and workers through investments in education and workforce training. It also: encourages coordination and transparency from agencies to provide fast and reliable project support; tasks agencies with developing an EV-Ready Community Playbook to facilitate local electrification planning and deployment activities; and requires agencies to consider strategies that equitable deploy infrastructure to ensure all Michiganders feel the benefits. Finally, the Directive requires state agencies and utilities to continue existing efforts to provide reliable and affordable electric service to power EV chargers.
The Executive Directive builds on recent work from Michigan to ensure widespread EV charging availability. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has examined optimal charging locations for the state, and manages Charge Up Michigan to support cities and businesses interested in EV charging. Finally, Michigan recently launched an interstate partnership, REV Midwest, with Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, and Wisconsin to coordinate regional infrastructure development and cooperation around fleet electrification and infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty EVs. Click here for the press release.