Last updated: January 17, 2024
In the quest for a more sustainable future, Vermont is electrifying its roadways with robust incentives to encourage electric vehicle (EV) adoption. From homeowners to local businesses and multi-family properties, here’s how Vermont is driving the change.
Charge Vermont’s Incentive Programs
Vermont is taking significant strides in promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption through Charge Vermont’s targeted incentive programs. With a key emphasis on developing EV charging infrastructure, the initiative aims to facilitate practical, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions in workplaces, multi-unit residences, and public attractions.
Charge Vermont’s Workplace Charging Incentive Program
Charge Vermont’s Workplace Charging Incentive Program offers a pragmatic approach for businesses looking to integrate EV charging infrastructure. The initiative provides grants covering approximately 90%-100% of the costs associated with installing Level-1 or Level-2 chargers in workplaces. This program extends its support to for-profit businesses, non-profits, and government agencies, with a particular encouragement for women- and minority-owned businesses. Prospective applicants are advised to submit their applications before January 15, 2026, with project installation expected within 12 months of approval. The comprehensive support includes technical assistance, site design, and installation planning. Workplaces also have the flexibility to choose whether to offer EV charging as a complimentary employee benefit or implement a user-pay model.
Charge Vermont’s Multi-Unit Residence Charging Incentive Program
Charge Vermont recognizes the significance of EV charging in multi-unit residences and extends its support through the Multi-Unit Residence Charging Incentive Program. This program offers funding covering 90%-100% of the costs for installing Level-1 or Level-2 chargers. Residential property owners, condominium associations, and various businesses are eligible to apply. Women- and minority-owned businesses receive additional support, while non-profits, government agencies, and for-profit businesses qualify for varying levels of assistance. The structured application process includes design, estimate review, installation, and ongoing operation. Vermont aims to create an inclusive and accessible EV charging infrastructure to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles.
Charge Vermont’s Public Attraction Charger Grants
In line with Vermont’s commitment to fostering sustainable transportation options, Charge Vermont introduces a compelling initiative aimed at enhancing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at public attractions throughout the state. Recognizing the pivotal role played by tourism and recreational destinations, the program seeks to incentivize the installation of EV chargers in the parking lots of public attractions. These can range from venues associated with recreation, entertainment, education, music, history, agriculture, the arts, or artisan products.
Charge Vermont is offering grants to public attractions, covering an impressive 90%-100% of the installation costs for Level-2 or DC Fast Chargers. The application window is open until January 15, 2026, and successful projects are expected to be completed within 12 months of approval, with accommodations considered based on equipment lead time.
Public attraction owners, whether for-profit businesses, non-profits, government agencies, residential property owners, condominium associations, electric utilities, or electric vehicle charging equipment providers, are eligible to apply. However, landowner authorization is a prerequisite for non-landowner applicants.
The comprehensive coverage provided by Charge Vermont includes technical assistance, site design, installation planning, necessary space upgrades, charging hardware, and installation. Moreover, the program incorporates an equitable approach by providing additional support for woman- and minority-owned businesses, which can have up to 100% of the total project cost covered. Nonprofits and government agencies qualify for up to 95%, while for-profit businesses are eligible for up to 90%.
Burlington Electric Department’s EV Charger Incentives
For Homeowners, Local Businesses, and Multi-Family Properties
Burlington Electric Department (BED) is leading the charge in Vermont with incentives designed to spark EV charger installations. Here’s what’s on offer:
Single-Family Homeowners: BED is providing rebates of up to $900 for Level 2 EV chargers. The rebate amount depends on the EV model you own. Plus, BED collaborates with local banks to offer affordable financing for any necessary electric panel upgrades.
Workplace charging: Local businesses can benefit from a $2,000 rebate per port, covering up to 75% of the installation cost for workplace EV charging stations.
Multi-Family Properties: For multi-family properties, BED offers rebates for both smart charging and standard charging:
- Smart Charging with or without public access: If you install eligible chargers, you could get a $250 bonus per charger if over 15% of units are designated low-to-moderate income housing, and an extra $300 per charger for public access during weekdays.
- Standard Charging: Offer charging as an amenity with no need for charging software. Also, enjoy an additional $250 incentive if over 15% of units are low-to-moderate income housing.
Green Mountain Power’s Fast Charging Program
Vermont’s pursuit of an eco-friendly future is accelerating, thanks to Green Mountain Power’s (GMP) pioneering Fast Charging program. With the aim of significantly expanding Vermont’s Level 3 charger network, GMP is stepping up to fund 20 new fast-charging stations.
Level 3 chargers, often referred to as fast chargers, are crucial for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. They provide a rapid and convenient way to recharge, making EVs more accessible and practical for Vermonters. However, expanding this critical infrastructure requires financial support, and that’s where GMP’s Charge Fast pilot program comes into play.
GMP’s Charge Fast pilot program is making a substantial commitment. It offers up to $40,000 in funding to support the electrical interconnection of Level 3 chargers. Importantly, there’s no deadline for this program, emphasizing GMP’s long-term commitment to advancing Vermont’s EV infrastructure.
In Vermont, the road to a sustainable future is paved with EV incentives designed to make a significant impact. From individuals to businesses and multi-family properties, these programs empower everyone to embrace electric vehicles and contribute to a cleaner, greener state. Burlington Electric Department’s forward-thinking rebates and Green Mountain Power’s ambitious Fast Charging program are catalysts for change, propelling Vermont into an electrified, eco-conscious era. As we navigate this journey, Vermont’s commitment to sustainability shines as a beacon of hope for a better, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly tomorrow.
