Jackson, Mississippi has just supercharged its electric vehicle (EV) future. With the addition of 10 new public EV chargers in early June 2025, the capital city now ranks among the best-equipped areas in Mississippi for public EV charging.
This infrastructure upgrade, spearheaded by the city in partnership with energy providers and clean transportation advocates, reflects growing interest in electric vehicles in Mississippi. It also signals that Jackson is preparing for a future where clean transportation will play a key role in both urban and rural mobility.
Where Are the Chargers Installed?
The 10 new chargers are strategically spread across key areas, including:
- Downtown Jackson (4 units) – Installed near City Hall and Mississippi Museum of Art
- Jackson State University campus (2 units) – To support students and faculty EV use
- Northpark Mall (2 units) – A retail charging solution for shoppers
- Interstate Exit 98B Park & Ride Lot (2 units) – For commuters and highway travelers
Each charger is a Level 2 station, capable of adding 20–25 miles of range per hour—ideal for drivers topping off while dining, shopping, or attending events.
Why This Matters
EV adoption in Mississippi has been slow compared to national trends, but 2025 is showing momentum:
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Mississippi had just over 1,400 registered EVs by the end of 2024.
- Jackson accounted for approximately 30% of those vehicles.
- With new chargers added, the city now has 24 publicly accessible charging points, an increase of 71% from 2023.
Public infrastructure is often cited as the main hurdle for EV ownership in rural and Southern states. Jackson’s move not only improves local convenience, but also puts the city on the map for federal EV funding, making it more likely to receive future grants under programs like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program.
What Officials Are Saying
“This is not just about adding chargers; it’s about sending a message,” said Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba during the unveiling. “Jackson is open for clean energy investment. We want residents, students, and visitors to know they can drive electric here confidently.”
What Type of Chargers Are Installed?
All 10 units are:
- Level 2 Chargers
- Powered by solar-assisted grids in 4 locations
- Open 24/7
- Integrated with apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and EVgo for availability tracking
Who Funded the Project?
The installation was funded by a mix of:
- Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) grants
- Volkswagen settlement funds
- A public-private partnership with Entergy Mississippi
The total cost of installation was approximately $480,000, with long-term savings expected in fuel offsets and emissions reductions.
What’s Next for Jackson’s EV Plans?
The city aims to add DC fast chargers by 2026 near interstate corridors and pilot EV buses on select public transit routes.
Additionally, Jackson is exploring incentives for businesses and apartment complexes to install private chargers that are open to the public after hours.