Governor Kathy Hochul announced a plan in September 2022 to phase out gas-powered vehicles in New York by 2035, with $175 million in federal funding allocated for expanding the state's EV charging infrastructure. New York currently ranks ninth in EV chargers per 10,000 people, with 9,000 charger ports and 7.7 per 10,000 residents, which is 161% higher than the national average. In this blog post, we will explore New York EV Charging Station incentives and rebates that empower businesses and organizations to contribute to a greener transportation future.

Types of Incentives and Rebates

New York offers a range of incentives for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, such as tax credits, grants, and rebates, available at the State, Utility level or through Laws and Regulations. New York boasts a significant number of hotels, multi-family homes, and mixed-use properties, making it vital for these establishments to seize the opportunities presented by DCFC (Direct Current Fast Charging) EV Charging Station Incentives and Rebates. By installing DCFC charging stations, these properties can cater to the surging number of electric vehicle (EV) drivers, offering them convenient and efficient charging options while enhancing the overall appeal of the property.

State Level Incentives and Rebates

• New York State Tax Credit for Public and Workplace Charging: The New York Alternative Fuels and Electric Vehicle Recharging Property Credit is a tax credit available for individuals and businesses in New York who invest in EV charging infrastructure. Taxpayers can claim a credit of 50% of the cost of purchasing and installing alternative fuel vehicle refueling property, with a maximum credit of $250,000 for businesses.

Utility Level Incentives and Rebates

• EV Make- Ready Program: Entities seeking to install or participate in the installation of DCFC chargers can earn incentives to offset a large portion, or in some cases all, of the infrastructure costs associated with preparing a site for an EV charging station.

• Central Hudson EV Make Ready Program: Central Hudson commercial customers based on eligibility can receive one-time incentives of up to 100% of the costs for electrical infrastructure required to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations plus free one-on-one guidance every step of the way.
• ConEdison Power Ready EV Charging Infrastructure Program: This Program provides business and municipal customers with installation and funding support for the installation of qualifying direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations. The incentives can help offset equipment, installation, and electrical upgrade costs. ConEdison also offers MHD fleets incentives of up to 85% of the installation costs of direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations. Visit here for more details.
• National Grid EV Charging Station Program: EV Make- Ready Program has allocated a budget of $143 million to the National Grid EV Charging Station Program.  National Grid's program provides approved hotels, multi-family homes, and mixed-use properties with full coverage of up to 100 percent of the electric infrastructure costs associated with installing new EV charging stations.
• New York State Electric and Gas (NYSEG) Incentive Program: With NYSEG’s Make Ready Program; hotels, multi-family homes, and mixed-use properties can quickly install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations with up to 100 percent reimbursement of costs for the electrical improvements needed to support EV charging.
• Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) Incentive Program: RG&E offers a tax credit program for businesses that install public or workplace charging stations. Eligible businesses may qualify for a tax credit of up to $5,000 or 50% of the installation cost, whichever is lower.
• Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) Station Incentive - Central Hudson: The Program is initially offering $4.4 million in funding for incentives and owners of publicly accessible, DC fast charging (DCFC) stations. Charging stations that meet certain criteria may be eligible to receive annual incentives per connector through 2025, with full incentives for stations rated 75 kW and higher and a 60% incentive for ports rated 50 kW to 74 kW.
• Electric Vehicle Charging Station Incentive Program: Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) Long Island provides an incentive program for customers who own and operate DCFC stations. The incentive amount varies based on the eligibility year, DCFC power rating, and charging equipment configuration. Eligibility is based on public accessibility without restrictions or membership.

Supportive Laws and Regulations

• Electric Vehicle (EV) and Charging Infrastructure Support: The New York Power Authority's Evolve NY program has committed $250 million to support electric vehicles, fill charging infrastructure gaps, and install fast chargers throughout the state, with $40 million specifically allocated for initiatives like interstate DCFC stations, airport charging hubs, and EV model communities, contributing to New York State's target of installing at least 800 new EV fast charging stations by 2025.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Signage and Parking Space Regulation: Non-electric vehicles are prohibited from parking in designated EV charging spaces, with EVs allowed to park and charge in those spaces, provided they are actively connected to the charger; if an EV remains parked at a charging station without being connected for more than 30 minutes, it is assumed to not be charging, and proper signage must be installed to clearly indicate the parking and charging restrictions for EV stations.

The availability of incentives and rebates, including the Charge Ready NY program, utility-specific initiatives, and tax credits, creates a favorable environment for property owners like hotels, multi-family homes, and mixed-use properties to invest in EV charging infrastructure. These incentives significantly reduce upfront costs, making the installation of EV charging stations more accessible and financially viable for a diverse range of stakeholders. By expanding the charging network across these properties, New York aims to accelerate electric vehicle adoption, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and foster sustainable transportation options. As the ownership of EVs continues to grow, capitalizing on these incentives and rebates becomes a strategic move towards shaping a cleaner and more sustainable future for New York and its communities. At the same time, it enables owners of hotel, multi-family and mixed-use properties to gain a significant competitive advantage in attracting customers and residents while minimizing their upfront investment.

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