Own an electric vehicle? Two new fast-charging stations open in Eastern Kentucky
It’s now easier to charge electric vehicles in Eastern Kentucky with the installation of new fast-charging stations.
Kentucky’s EV (Electric Vehicle) Charging Program, which installs electric charging stations across Kentucky, recently opened two new stations in Hazard. It’s the third location for the chargers in Kentucky so far, following earlier installations in Berea and Richmond.
The charging program, which was approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation and U.S. Department of Energy in 2022, aims to bring “an accessible, convenient and affordable EV charging network to serve the driving choices of Kentuckians and support EV-related charging development,” according to the project’s website.
“Having our first site open in Eastern Kentucky is a milestone we’re proud of that supports reliable connections across the state,” Gov. Andy Beshear said in a news release last week.
The stations in Hazard, at the Apple Market on 1079 Morton Blvd., are capable of charging four vehicles at 150 kilowatts each, according to the news release. A Tesla Model Y “could take up to 40 minutes to reach 80%” charge on a 150 kilowatt charger, according to Kelley Blue Book.
In all, Kentucky’s EV Charging Program will install 47 fast-charging stations from 11 developers across the state. Most of the charging stations are expected to open by late 2026, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray said in a news release.
The stations, along Kentucky interstates and parkways, are required to be available 24/7 and charge most EV models. Developers of the charging stations are required to fund at least 20% of the construction costs and are required to maintain the station’s operation for at least five years.
According to the release, the project is funded by $32.2 million in non-competitive federal grant funds.
Kentucky had 14,410 registered electric vehicles and 6,346 registered plug-in hybrid vehicles as of Dec. 31, 2024, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
“That is going to make a real difference for Kentuckians and those visiting our state,” Gray said.