Electric Bike Rebate Program Resumes

Connecticut residents seeking to purchase eBikes between mid-September and Oct. 1 may be eligible for up to $1,250 in rebates under a voucher program re-launched Tuesday by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

The agency began Round 2 of the Electric Bicycle Incentive Program on Sept. 17, following a “robust response” from consumers during the program’s first phase when it launched last summer. The program provides vouchers to offset the price of buying an eBike from participating brick-and-mortar retailers in Connecticut.

“Last year, we had $750,000 to award,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes told Fox61 on Monday. “Ultimately, we helped 422 recipients get on a bike.”

This year’s program differs from the first round in that it will utilize a lottery system to prioritize applicants whose income is less than 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. The lottery will also prioritize applicants who reside in Environmental Justice communities or Distressed Municipalities, according to DEEP.

Benefits under the program range from $500 to a total of $1,250, depending on the vouchers for which applicants qualify.

The program represents an expansion of the Connecticut Hydrogen and Electric Automobile Purchase Rebate (CHEAPR), which provides incentives for consumers who purchase electric vehicles.

The state legislature voted to expand the rebate program to eBikes through the Connecticut Clean Air Act, led by Sen. Christine Cohen, co-chair of the Transportation Committee. In a press release issued at the launch of the first phase, Cohen said she was pleased to see its provisions taking effect.

“Making e-bikes and electric cars more accessible is an important step towards meeting our reduced carbon emission goals and I’m looking forward to seeing more affordable electric options on the road,” Cohen said.

Consumers seeking to participate in the program must apply for a voucher prior to making an eBike purchase. Visit DEEP’s eBike Incentive Program website for information on how to apply as well as a list of eligible eBikes and participating retailers.

Posted By Hugh McQuaid