SC passes legislation to boost free-market EV charging stations

Amid the federal funding suspensions for electric vehicle charging stations, South Carolina lawmakers have passed legislation to create a “free market” for businesses still looking to invest in the charging industry. 

Though South Carolina did not participate in the federal National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program, the biggest concern from businesses hoping to add EV chargers came from fear of larger electric companies being able to sell the same charge for cheaper rates. 

“We should never ask the public to fund something the private sector is willing to invest in,” state Rep. Bill Herbkersman, R-Beaufort, said in a news release from Charge Ahead Partnership. “This legislation will attract private investment and bring the free-market competition that comes with it.” 

Senate Bill 275, which was passed May 8, restricts electric utilities from using ratepayer funds to build, own and operate charging stations, aiming to alleviate the potential uneven playing field for small businesses, according to the release. 

“South Carolina has been a leader in many aspects of EV manufacturing, attracting billions of investment dollars with free market policies,” Jay Smith, Charge Ahead Partnership executive director, said in the release. “This legislation establishes the state as a policy leader as well. S. 275 lays the groundwork for a competitive EV charging marketplace, where businesses and entrepreneurs can invest with confidence.” 

Charge Ahead Partnership is a coalition of businesses, associations and individuals that share a goal of efficiently and effectively developing a charging network for electric vehicles across the United States. 

“As EVs become more common on South Carolina roads, I want the best charging providers to emerge. The only way that will happen is through free-market competition,” state Sen. Larry Grooms, R-Moncks Corner, said in the release. “The liquid fuel industry is among the most competitive marketplaces in America, with transparent pricing and retailers furiously trying to outdo their competition. There is no reason EV charging should be any different.”