County Executive Melissa Agard Celebrates First Meeting of EV Advisory Committee to Expand Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

March 17, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive, County Executive

Madison, WI – Dane County Executive Melissa Agard today kicked off the first meeting of the Electric Vehicle (EV) Advisory Committee, launching a critical initiative to expand EV infrastructure across the county. The committee’s work will support the “Charge Up Dane County” effort, ensuring that all residents—regardless of where they live—have access to the benefits of electric transportation.

 

“Dane County has long been a leader in electric vehicle adoption, and this committee will help us ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace with demand while prioritizing equity,” said County Executive Agard. “By thinking locally and acting boldly, we are making Dane County a cleaner, more connected, and more sustainable place for everyone.”

 

While Dane County comprises about 10% of Wisconsin’s population, it accounts for approximately 25% of all EVs registered in the state. However, many residents—especially those in multi-family housing, rural areas, and those without personal garages—face barriers to EV ownership due to a lack of accessible charging infrastructure.

 

The EV Advisory Committee will play a key role in helping to address these gaps. The committee’s efforts are informed by the Dane County Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Plan developed by the Greater Madison MPO, as well as direct public input through an interactive mapping tool.

 

The county is currently in the planning phase of a federally funded two-phase EV infrastructure expansion project. This phase includes identifying charging station locations, conducting preliminary designs, and completing environmental due diligence. These efforts will position Dane County to secure additional funding for a broader rollout of EV charging stations in the next phase.

 

“This collaboration between county leadership, energy experts, transportation planners, and community advocates is what makes Dane County special. We don’t wait for others to act—we lead,” Agard stated.

 

The EV Advisory Committee’s work is being led by the Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change, under the leadership of Kathy Kuntz and her team. Their focus includes prioritizing charging infrastructure in areas that are unlikely to be served by private markets, such as multi-family housing and multi-modal hubs like park-and-rides.