The State of New York has just announced new initiatives to encourage EV adoption. It includes more fast charging, regulation for electricity rates, and an update on the state’s EV buyer incentives.
The main thrust of the new announcement is part of the $250-million EVolve NY initiative. The New York Power Authority will be installing up to 200 fast charge stations across the state. The 150-kilowatt chargers will be installed in more than 24 locations on major traffic corridors. That includes chargers along the I-90 corridor that runs from the westernmost border with Pennsylvania to Albany. It also includes additional chargers on I-87 from Albany south to New York City. The NYPA is targeting having a fast charger every 75 miles along key interstate corridors by the end of next year.
“Addressing infrastructure barriers is key if we want people to step into EV ownership with confidence, recognize that lower-emission electric vehicles are affordable, accessible and fun to drive, and understand they’ll be able to drive across the state without having to worry about recharging,” said NYPA CEO Gil C. Quiniones.
The NYPA will also install charging hubs at the state’s two major airports, JFK and LaGuardia. Construction for the expanded network is set to start in the spring. The state has a total goal of 10,000 installed charging stations by the end of 2021.
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The next step is new legislation to help EV drivers at home. The Public Service Commission has made regulatory changes to ensure that residential customers charging during off-peak hours won’t pay more than standard rates.
“Charging electric vehicles at night is smart as it not only saves electric vehicle owners money on their electric bill, it helps utilities better manage the grid,” said Public Service Commission Chair John B. Rhodes.
Finally, the update on the state’s Drive Clean Rebate. The rebate started in 2017, and so far has seen more than $15-million approved. That’s more than 11,000 customers receiving the rebate of up to $2,000. It applies to more than 40 electrified models. The program has a total budget of $70-million for incentives and outreach initiatives. There is also $5-million available for rebates up to $4,000 for charging stations, open to public chargers, employers, building owners, and municipalities. That rebate can be combined with an additional tax credit of 50 percent.
It’s all part of Governor Cuomo’s plan to reduce state carbon emissions to 40 percent of 1990 levels by 2030.