Hi Diane,
It looks like the money will flow to the state Departments of Transportation (DOTs), so your best bet is to get to know the people at the DOTs. They'll will issue the solicitations probably late this year or early next year, and the contracts will be awarded in 2023.
If I had advice, I would say this is not for the faint of heart for a small business. You'll likely have to put up 20% cost share and the period of performance is -- let's say -- lightning fast. The business would be advised to work out site host agreements, utility arrangements, and order equipment well before the solicitation hits the streets. Otherwise, you won't be able to install and commission the equipment in time. Is that risky? Yes.
The other little matter is the problem of the business model. Just because you can buy equipment and install it nearly for free, doesn't mean you can operate it and maintain it and make money. Even the large players like EVgo and ElectrifyAmerica have trouble with the operational business model. When you install 4 x 150kW DC chargers, you'll also run into demand charges in many utility service territories, which will severely cut into your operational budget.
It's an exciting opportunity. Just go in with eyes wide open.
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