The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program
In an era where sustainability is paramount, the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program stands as a beacon of progress. This competitive grant initiative is designed to strategically deploy publicly accessible alternative fueling infrastructure, including for propane autogas, fostering a cleaner and greener future. The program’s dual focus on community engagement and corridor development ensures that both urban centers and key transportation routes are equipped to support the transition to alternative fuels. With applications due by August 28th, 2024, this program presents an exciting opportunity for communities and developers alike.
Two Key Funding Categories
The program offers two distinct categories of grants to address the diverse needs of the nation:
- Community Charging and Alternative Fueling Grants (Community Program)
- Charging and Alternative Fuel Corridor Grants (Corridor Program)
Community Charging and Alternative Fueling Grants
The Community Program aims to integrate alternative fueling options into the daily lives of people where they live and work which helps expand the public autogas refueling network. This category focuses on:
- Urban and Suburban Areas: Installing charging and fueling stations in residential neighborhoods, business districts, and public spaces .
- Accessibility: Ensuring that infrastructure is within reach for a diverse range of users, including underserved and disadvantaged communities.
- Innovation: Encouraging the use of cutting-edge technologies and approaches to maximize the effectiveness and sustainability of fueling infrastructure.
- Public Accessibility: Highlighting the importance of making alternative fueling options widely accessible to the general public.
Charging and Alternative Fuel Corridor Grants
The Corridor Program targets the development of Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs), strategically placed along major highways and transportation routes. Key aspects include:
- Connectivity: Creating a network of fueling stations that enable long-distance travel using alternative fuels and highlight public accessibility.
- Efficiency: Reducing range anxiety by ensuring consistent and reliable access to fueling options along travel routes.
- Economic Growth: Supporting regional economies by making it easier for travelers and commercial vehicles to utilize alternative fuels.
- Public Accessibility: Emphasizing the expansion of publicly accessible refueling stations to ensure comprehensive coverage across key transportation routes.
Who is Eligible to Apply?
Eligible applicants include:

- States or political subdivisions of States
- Metropolitan planning organizations
- Units of local government
- Special purpose districts or public authorities with a transportation function, including port authorities
- Indian Tribes
- U.S. Territories
- Authorities, agencies, or instrumentalities or entities owned by one or more entities listed above
- Groups of entities listed above
- State or local authorities with ownership of publicly accessible transportation facilities (applies to Community Program only)
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
The Round 2 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the CFI Program is available on Grants.gov. The CFI Program offers up to $1.3 billion under this NOFO, with funds available for new applications submitted under this CFI Round 2 NOFO and for previously submitted applications under the CFI FY 2022/2023 NOFO Number 693JJ323NF00004 (Round 1 NOFO).
Newly Submitted Applications Under the CFI Round 2 NOFO
The CFI Round 2 NOFO announces availability of up to $800 million for new applications. New applications must follow the criteria and considerations outlined in the CFI Round 2 NOFO. These applications must be submitted in Grants.gov by midnight Eastern time on August 28, 2024. Applicants are encouraged to register in advance of the submission deadline and to subscribe to receive notifications of updates/amendments to the CFI Round 2 NOFO. Approval of user registrations for the site may take multiple weeks. It is the applicant’s responsibility to monitor Grants.gov for any updates to this notice.
Previously Submitted Applications Under the CFI FY 2022/2023 Round 1 NOFO
The NOFO announces up to $521 million of reserved funds for reconsideration of previously submitted applications that were not selected for funding but were rated either “Highly Recommended” or “Recommended” under the FY 2022/2023 Round 1 NOFO. Applicants requesting reconsideration of their Round 1 application will not be permitted to modify, amend, or supplement their application. To request reconsideration of a Round 1 application, lead applicants must notify FHWA by July 1, 2024, that they wish for their previously submitted application to be considered for award. Lead applicants should respond to the email sent by FHWA from CFIgrants@dot.gov. If the lead applicant did not receive an email, they should send a message to CFIgrants@dot.gov with the state where the project is located and the title of the project.
Why This Program Matters
The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program is more than just a funding opportunity; it is a critical component of the nation’s broader strategy to combat climate change. By promoting the adoption of propane autogas vehicles and other alternative fuel technologies, the program aims to:
- Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Lowering the carbon footprint of transportation, one of the largest contributors to global warming.
- Enhance Energy Security: Diversifying the energy sources used in transportation to reduce dependence on imported oil.
- Promote Public Health: Decreasing air pollution from conventional vehicles, which is linked to various health issues.
- Expand Public Accessibility: Broadening the network of publicly accessible autogas refueling stations to ensure comprehensive availability for all users.
Conclusion
The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program represents a pivotal step towards a sustainable and resilient future. By supporting the deployment of alternative fueling infrastructure, the program not only addresses environmental challenges but also enhances the quality of life in communities across the nation. As the application deadline approaches, we encourage all eligible entities to seize this opportunity to contribute to the transformation of our transportation landscape.
For more information on how to apply, visit the official program website and join the movement towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow.