Important Notice: The applications for the DRIVE EV and the Erika Niedowski E-Bike Rebate Programs reopened and are now live! DRIVE EV Applicants: Please be aware that rebate amounts for NEW zero-emission vehicles have been adjusted due to limited funding availability. We are actively working to maximize these program funds to ensure that Rhode Islanders making these purchases or leases can benefit from receiving a state rebate. Click here to learn more.
About Driving Rhode Island to Vehicle Electrification DRIVEEV is an electric vehicle (EV) rebate program administered by the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) to support adoption of electric vehicles by Rhode Island residents, small-businesses, non-profits, and public sector entities. OER is the lead state agency for energy policy and programs with a mission to lead the state toward a clean, affordable, reliable, and equitable energy future. OER develops policies and programs that respond to the state's evolving energy needs while advancing environmental sustainability, energy security, and a vibrant clean energy economy. OER is committed to working with public- and private-sector stakeholders to ensure that all Rhode Islanders have access to cost-effective, resilient, and sustainable energy solutions. The adoption of sustainable transportation solutions, such as electric vehicles for commuters and fleets, is crucial to Rhode Island’s fight against climate change and achieving the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction goals mandated by the 2021 Act on Climate. The 2021 Act on Climate requires a 45 percent reduction in the state’s GHG emissions below 1990 levels by 2030, 80 percent by 2040, and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.[1] The transportation sector accounts for more than one-third of statewide greenhouse gas emissions.[2] DRIVEEV is a new program designed to accelerate the adoption of EVs by Rhode Island drivers, with the potential to drive important public policy goals such as: Improve public health and air quality by reducing transportation-related air pollution that contributes to the formation of smog and related health effects such as asthma; Reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change; Enhance energy diversity and security; and Save drivers money and promote economic growth. This Program Guidance Document details the full suite of incentive offerings through DRIVEEV and provides important information and instructions for those interested in applying for financial incentives. The Program Guidance Document may be periodically updated as needed to clarify project requirements and improve the program’s effectiveness. The Program Guidance Document, including any updates, will be posted on this website. [1] For more information about the 2021 Act on Climate and related efforts, please visit: www.climatechange.ri.gov. [2] According to Rhode Island’s 2017 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory, the transportation sector contributed 35.5 percent of Rhode Island’s emissions. For more information about Rhode Island’s Greenhouse Gas Inventory, please visit: http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/air/ghg-emissions-inventory.php.
