The Drive Clean Rebate Program Helps New Yorkers Drive Cleaner Cars and Reduces Upfront Costs
$2.7 Million Awarded in Grants for 49 Municipal Projects to Fund Zero-Emission Vehicles and Chargers, Helping to Reduce Emissions
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced more than $12 million added to the Drive Clean Rebate program to help consumers save up to $2,000 on the purchase of an electric vehicle and $2.7 million awarded to local governments to purchase electric vehicles and install zero-emission charging/fueling stations for public use to address climate change and build healthier communities. Together, the consumer rebate program and the grants awarded to 49 community-based projects total $14.7 million to advance the State’s efforts to achieve New York’s ambitious Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2050.
«Zero-emission vehicles are one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and boost the electrification of our transportation sector,” Governor Hochul said. » Every milestone we reach in transitioning to clean electric vehicles is another step closer to improving air quality in communities, and New York is proud to continue paving the way towards a cleaner, greener future.”
For consumers purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle, the Drive Clean Rebate program offers a point-of-sale rebate that reduces upfront costs. Available in all 62 counties of the State, the rebate, administered by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), is offered by car dealers. Rebates ranging from $500 – $2,000 are available on more than 60 models of vehicles and consumers receive higher rebates for the purchase or lease of longer range, all-electric vehicles with a base Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price of less than $42,000.
Doreen M. Harris, President & CEO, NYSERDA said, “Both the ZEV awards and New York State’s Drive Clean Rebate program send important messages to communities and consumers, now is the time to take the simple step toward owning an electric vehicle or building out a fleet of electric vehicles. We can all be proud of the fact that EV chargers and infrastructure are more prevalent across the state than ever before, supporting all New Yorkers in their effort to shrink their carbon footprint with cleaner transportation options that help to build stronger, healthier communities in our fight against climate change.”
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “New York State is making significant investments to green our transportation sector working hand-in-hand with communities. I applaud Governor Hochul’s efforts supporting action at the local level. Today’s grant recipients are setting a clean, green example for the rest of the State and country. Buying electric vehicles and installing charging stations will help these municipalities, as well as residents and visitors, and shows how these communities are making it a priority to reduce climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions.”
New York Power Authority Interim President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “Fast and easily accessible charging is key to the widespread acceptance of emission-free transportation. Building out infrastructure through New York’s EVolve NY program makes it easy for consumers to do their part in helping the state achieve its ambitious climate goals by reducing greenhouse gas pollution and creating a healthier environment for all of us.”
The $2.7 million in grants for the 2021 round of the DEC Municipal Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) program is funded by the State’s Environmental Protection Fund and administered by DEC. The 49 awards to 20 municipalities total nearly $2.5 million to help fund the installation of 200 additional Level 2 charging ports, six additional direct current fast charge (DCFC) pedestals, and two hydrogen fueling nozzles. Additionally, 10 awards totaling $215,000 were provided to nine municipalities to support the purchase of 32 all-battery electric vehicles for municipal fleet use. Eligible vehicles must have a minimum electric range of 50 miles.