TDEC Seeks Rapid Recharging Station Projects Under Latest Fast Charge TN Network Funding Opportunity
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has released its fourth solicitation for Light‑Duty Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) supply equipment projects under the Fast Charge TN Network Grant Program, funded through the Volkswagen Diesel Settlement Environmental Mitigation Trust (VW Settlement EMT). The EMT funds environmental mitigation projects that reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides.
This solicitation supports the continued buildout of Tennessee’s Fast Charge Network, adding rapid recharging infrastructure, or DC fast charging stations, at least every 50 miles along prioritized corridors. The program complements the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program administered by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).
TDEC and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) partnered in 2021 to develop a statewide electric vehicle (EV) fast‑charging network to support the growth of EVs and reduce barriers to transportation electrification. Tennessee’s initial allocation under the VW EMT totaled $45,759,914 with up to 15 percent dedicated to the Light‑Duty ZEV Supply Equipment Eligible Mitigation Action category.
Under this solicitation, up to $600,000 in EMT funding is available for eligible projects.
The grant program, managed by the TDEC Office of Energy Programs, will provide financial assistance to local power companies (LPCs), for‑profit or nonprofit organizations, and government entities, including local governments and public institutions of higher education. Applicants must commit to owning, operating, and maintaining grant‑funded EV fast‑charging infrastructure for at least five years following equipment installation and commissioning. Charging infrastructure must be publicly accessible 24/7 and located within identified infrastructure gap areas.
Applications and required documentation must be submitted electronically via the TDEC Grants Management System. Applications must be received by Nov. 30, 2026, at 4 p.m. CT. TDEC will announce awards after evaluating all complete, eligible submissions.
Before applying, applicants must view the recorded application workshop, which outlines timelines, eligibility, reporting requirements, and other program terms.
More information on the Fast Charge TN Network is available on TDEC’s website and on TVA’s Energy Right website.
Interested applicants may sign up for the TDEC VW Settlement email list at this link to receive future announcements.