Bob Donnan: Pa. must build EV infrastructure
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As Pennsylvania continues to make significant strides toward a cleaner and more sustainable future, it is crucial that we seize the opportunity to leverage federal investments in building out our electric vehicle infrastructure. The recent allocation of $36 million in federal funding for EV charging stations, thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, is a momentous step toward achieving this goal.
With these critical federal investments, Pennsylvania has the unique opportunity to not only enhance our transportation infrastructure, but also protect our health and boost our economy. The increasing number of registered EVs in the state, which reached an impressive 66,000 at the end of 2022, represents a remarkable 48% increase from the previous year. It is imperative that our state-level measures align with these investments to ensure that we capitalize on this momentum.
The Inflation Reduction Act, in particular, will play a pivotal role in driving the adoption of electric vehicles. By offering upfront discounts of up to $7,500 for new EVs and up to $4,000 for used EVs, this legislation will make purchasing an electric vehicle more accessible and affordable for all Pennsylvanians. The potential savings for drivers are substantial, with electric pickup truck owners estimated to save over $1,700 per year in fueling and maintenance costs compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts. Smaller car owners could save over $1,200 annually, further enhancing the financial benefits of embracing electric vehicles.
The benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles extend well beyond cost savings. A fully electrified Pennsylvania would result in over $73 billion in public health benefits by 2050, preventing approximately 6,740 deaths caused by vehicle pollution. These staggering numbers underscore the grave impact of vehicle emissions on our environment and public health, emphasizing the urgent need for a transition to cleaner transportation alternatives. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we contribute to the overall well-being of our nation, as the transportation sector accounts for more than a quarter of these emissions.
A recent event in Pittsburgh, organized by PennFuture and ReImagine Appalachia, highlighted the positive impact of investing in EV infrastructure. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey and Rep. Dan Miller came together with organizations such as CALSTART and IBEW Local 5 to underscore the importance of these investments in creating local jobs and preparing our city and region for a cleaner and more sustainable transportation reality. The event served as a powerful reminder of the potential of federal investments in driving positive change and spurring economic growth — along with the importance of ensuring that the well-being of our workers remains at the forefront of our efforts.
The efficiency and environmental benefits of electric vehicles cannot be overstated, especially in a region that still grapples daily with some of the worst air quality in the country. EVs are significantly more efficient than gasoline engines, allowing them to drive three times as far while using the same amount of energy. This remarkable efficiency not only maximizes the range of electric vehicles, but also minimizes our reliance on fossil fuels, thereby mitigating the environmental impact of transportation. In contrast, gasoline engines operate at an efficiency rate of only around 30% to 35%, resulting in significant energy waste and unnecessary pollution.
By continuing to leverage federal investments for building out our EV infrastructure, Pennsylvania stands to gain in multiple ways. Increased tax revenues, high-paying jobs and environmental benefits are just a few of the positive outcomes we can expect. This investment has the potential to revitalize industrial communities that have long awaited the opportunity for economic growth and development. By attracting EV manufacturing to Pennsylvania, we can leverage our role as America’s leading energy producer to propel this sector into the future, solidifying our position as a hub for clean energy innovation and economic prosperity.
It is imperative that Pennsylvania remains committed to leveraging federal investments for the expansion of our electric vehicle infrastructure. By embracing the transition to electric vehicles, Pennsylvania can secure a brighter, cleaner, and more prosperous future for all its residents. Let us seize this opportunity to drive positive change, protect our environment, and build a sustainable future that we can be proud to pass on to future generations.
Bob Donnan of Peters is an electric vehicle and solar home owner who hosts the environmental blog “Bobscaping.”