Manchester and Nortonville newest sites to power EVs in Kentucky
FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 29, 2026) – Drivers have two new locations to fast-charge their electric vehicle (EV) in Clay and Hopkins counties. The new stations in Manchester and Nortonville are made possible through Team Kentucky’s EV Charging Program, which is expanding access to reliable, convenient fast charging to support long-distance EV travel.
“With more fast charging stations opening statewide, we’re making sure families and businesses across Kentucky won’t have to worry about where their next charge is coming from,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Our statewide network is growing with more options than ever to charge up, and we’re not done yet.”
Stations were developed by Francis Energy and PowerUp as part of the federally funded National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC). NEVI funds totaling $55 million have been obligated for fast-charging stations in the state.
In September, Kentucky resecured $17.8 million in previously appropriated funds to build out EV charging stations after the Governor joined a lawsuit challenging the federal government over its unlawful decision to freeze funding for the NEVI program.
PowerUp was awarded $897,500 in federal funds for the Manchester site located at 425 KY 80 off the Hal Rogers Parkway at Exit 20. Francis Energy was awarded $1.2 million for the Nortonville site located at 162 Hopkinsville Road off Exit 33 serving I-169 travelers. Both sites offer four ports capable of charging at up to 400 kilowatts each.
“PowerUp America is proud to bring this next-generation charging station to Manchester and Eastern Kentucky and help strengthen the region’s transportation infrastructure for years to come,” said CEO of PowerUp America Josh Turner. “This site was designed with the driver experience at the forefront, featuring covered charging, pull through accessibility, fast and reliable charging technology, and a safe, welcoming environment for travelers and local residents alike. PowerUp America was founded with a commitment to building infrastructure that communities can be proud of and drivers can trust. We are grateful for the partnership of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and local leaders.”
“What began as a vision for statewide EV charging access is now taking shape across Kentucky, with Nortonville marking the next step in that progress,” said Megan Charles, Executive Vice President of Project Development and Chief of Staff at Francis Energy. “As our seventh location under KYTC’s NEVI program, this station strengthens fast-charging access in western Kentucky and brings the Commonwealth closer to a truly connected and reliable network. We are proud of the progress we are making alongside KYTC and excited to keep that momentum moving forward.”
Kentucky’s EV Charging Network
To date, 16 fast charging stations are open, and 12 are under construction statewide with a fourth request for proposals recently issued to build additional sites in urban and rural areas.
The currently funded sites are along the state’s interstates and parkways. Each station must have at least four charging ports, be accessible to the public 24 hours a day/seven days a week, and work with most EV models.
KYTC will not develop, own, operate or maintain the charging stations. Each developer must fund at least 20% of the construction and operational costs and is required to maintain the operation of the charging station for at least five years.
Visit EVCharging.ky.gov for a map of sites open and under construction, and for more information about the program.
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