DRIVE ELECTRIC CONNECTICUT
We all deserve to breath clean air
The “DRIVE Electric USA” initiative is developing state-based “Drive Electric” programs across the U.S. that are engaging individuals, utilities, legislators, dealerships, and others towards removing adoption barriers and accelerating plug-in electric vehicle use. Drive Electric Connecticut stakeholders will create a strong, statewide EV program, informed by a diverse group of people, organizations, and agencies and will focuse on locally based efforts. Become a stakeholder!
What is Drive Electric CT?
Upcoming Events
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October 5, 2024
Ridgefield High School
Ridgefield, CT
Come to Ridgefield and see a variety of EVs on display!
TBD
October 22,2024
Karl Chevrolet
New Canaan, CT
Fodar Farm
Norwalk, CT
Join us at Karl Chevrolet for speakers, refreshments and drive and rides!
Join us for speakers and refreshments at Fodor Farm
Electric Vehicle Adoption in CT
(Source: CT DMV & CT DEEP)
Registered EVs in CT
22,593
12 Month Increase
43%
Most Registered
Tesla Model 3
Public Chargers in CT
360+
Economic Empowerment
By facilitating access to affordable EVs, Connecticut residents will have increased savings. Connecticut commerce and industry investment associated with the EV transition boost CT economy.
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Workforce Development
The transition to EVs creates EV technician jobs, expands the renewable energy storage industry, and provides EVSE installation work for electricians, engineers and EVSE suppliers.
2
Individual Savings
An individual will experience savings at the end of the year when comparing an EV to a conventional vehicle due to the lower fuel and maintenance costs associated with EV ownership.
3
Sustainable Transportation Choice
EVs contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, leading to less weather-related storms and damaging conditions, which lessens the economic burden on everyone.
Health Benefits of EVs
The air we breath has no boundaries and flows throughout all of the communities in Connecticut. Although air quality is worse in some places, we all need to take responsibility for the role we play, because everyone has a right to breath clean air. Air pollution causes a variety of adverse health outcomes. It increases the risk of and contributes to asthma, lung cancer, breast cancer, heart disease, stroke and respiratory infections. Both short and long term exposure to air pollutants has been associated with negative health impacts. This is very costly in terms of what it takes to pay for treatment and lost time at work and/or school, as well as the sadness and frustration that is experienced when our loved ones experience symptoms related to dirty air and/or the grief that we suffer when they die of air pollution related cancer, heart disease and stroke.
Electric vehicles emit less greenhouse gases and air pollutants over their life than gas or diesel cars. This is even after the production of the vehicle and the generation of the electricity required to fuel them is considered. Electric cars eliminate exhaust emissions of NOx and PM2. 5, and reduce particulates from brake wear due to regenerative braking.
With no tailpipe, pure electric cars produce no carbon dioxide emissions when driving. This reduces air pollution considerably. Over a year, just one electric car on the roads can save an average of 1.5 million grams of CO2.
Asthma
Pollutants in the air can act as asthma triggers. They irritate the airways, making them swell and tighten up, and cause breathing problems. Pollutants can also make it more likely to catch upper respiratory infections (like colds), which can bring on asthma symptoms.
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects 7.8% of children and adults nationwide. In 2021, 61,200 (8.9%) children and 300,900 (10.5%) adults had asthma in CT.
Justice40: Asthma rates for residents of Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, and Waterbury occur at a rate of 18.9 per 1,000,000 compared to 8.3 per 1,000,000 for the rest of Connecticut.
For more info visit Connecticut State Department of Health.
Breast Cancer
New research and clinical studies show a significant linear increase in the risk of breast cancer related to exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), adding new evidence to the connection between breast cancer and human-made air pollution. There is science based evidence and a biological rationale behind the link between air pollution and breast cancer risk, given that small particulate matter is genotoxic, and can lead to endocrine destructive behaviors that lead to breast cancer. Incidence rates are higher in CT compared to the entire U.S. In CT, breast cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths in women.
Justice40: Black women have a 40% higher breast cancer death rate than white women.
Lung Cancer
Because air pollution contains a mixture of polluting particles, there are a few ways air pollution contributes to lung cancer. For example, tiny particles can build up in the lungs and damage the DNA in cells. This can change how cells divide, which can trigger cancer. Additional research has found that exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air promotes the growth of cells in the lungs which carry cancer-causing mutations.
Justice40: Data shows that compared with white patients, Connecticut Latinos were 30% more likely to not receive any treatment for lung cancer and were 9% less likely to survive. Black people also were 19% less likely to get surgical treatment and 16% less likely to survive. Additionally, Asian and Pacific Islanders in Connecticut are the least likely group to be diagnosed early.
Heart Disease
A large body of science has shown that air pollution can exacerbate existing cardiovascular disease and contribute to the development of the disease. Air pollutants can travel deep into the bloodstream through the lungs, and heart. This can increase the risk of developing heart and circulatory diseases. Air pollutants can, damage your blood vessels by making them narrower and harder. The disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. One in three Americans has heart or blood vessel disease.
Justice40: Non-Hispanic blacks are twice as likely to die of heart disease than whites, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders or Asians.
Environmental Justice
EQUITY IN REGARD TO EVSE
Reverse Debit Machine
Having a reverse debit machine for individuals who only have a cash option at EVSE stations is essential as an equity consideration.
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Financial accessibility: A reverse debit machine will ensure that individuals without access to traditional banking services or credit cards can still utilize EV charging infrastructure. Preventing socioeconomic barriers from hindering their adoption of EVs.
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Inclusivity and equal access: Implementing reverse debit machines promote inclusivity by catering to the needs of diverse communities and individuals, including those who rely primarily on cash for their day-to-day transactions. Reverse debit machines democratize access to clean transportation solutions such as EVSE.
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Addressing digital divide: Recognizing that not everyone has access to electronic payment methods, considering marginalized communities and elderly individuals. Providing cash payment alternatives at EVSE stations helps bridge the digital divide and ensures equitable access to essential services for all individuals.
Purchasing an EV
In environmental justice, disadvantaged communities, those who already own a vehicle, and are financially capable of purchasing a new vehicle, could consider purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) to support cleaner air in their own community.
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Cost-effectiveness with incentives: State rebates and federal tax incentives reduce the upfront costs of certain EV models, bringing them to cost parity or below the conventional vehicle equivalent. EVs are available for as low as $24,000. Because prices have come down, an EV may fit in more people’s price range.
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Environmental benefits in disadvantaged communities: Purchasing EVs in Disadvantaged Communities (DACs) not only benefits the individual driver but also contributes to cleaner air and improved public health for everyone in their city.
Key Stakeholders
How much do EV's Cost?
As the cost of electric vehicles continues to go down, it's the perfect time to make the switch and go electric.. Not only are there more options available now than ever before, but electric vehicles also offer reduced maintenance costs and significantly lower emissions. With Drive Electric, you can experience the future of transportation without sacrificing performance or design.
Federal Tax Credits
You may qualify for a credit up to $7,500 under Internal Revenue Code Section 30D if you buy a new, qualified plug-in EV or fuel cell electric vehicle (FCV). The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 changed the rules for this credit for vehicles purchased from 2023 to 2032.
The credit is available to individuals and their businesses.
To qualify, you must:
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Buy it for your own use, not for resale
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Use it primarily in the U.S.
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In addition, your modified adjusted gross income (AGI) may not exceed:
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$300,000 for married couples filing jointly
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$225,000 for heads of households
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$150,000 for all other filers
You can use your modified AGI from the year you take delivery of the vehicle or the year before, whichever is less. If your modified AGI is below the threshold in 1 of the two years, you can claim the credit.
The credit is nonrefundable, so you can't get back more on the credit than you owe in taxes. You can't apply any excess credit to future tax years.
For more information, visit the IRS website.
CHEAPR Program
The Connecticut Hydrogen and Electric Automobile Purchase Rebate (CHEAPR) offers incentives to Connecticut residents who purchase or lease an eligible vehicle from a licensed Connecticut automobile dealership. Incentive amounts currently range from $4,250 for an eligible new battery electric (BEV), $2,250 for a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV), and up to $9,500 for a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) when a Standard Rebate is combined with Rebate+ New for Rebate+ qualified individuals1.
There are currently over 30 eligible vehicles available, and the list continues to grow as manufacturers release new models. By participating in this incentive program, you will not only receive an incentive on an electric vehicle, you will be helping Connecticut meet its clean air and energy goals! Learn more!
Virtual EV Showcase
The average price of a new electric vehicle has tumbled 22.4% in a year, bringing the price gap between EVs and all cars under $3,000.. New model launches and ramped-up production have led to a glut of EVs and lower prices. The average transaction price of a new EV is down. With incentives and rebates, EVs can now cost less then an internal combustion engine vehicles. There is also the added bonus of significantly reduced maintenance and fueling costs.
Charging Basics
This is your Feature section introductory paragraph. Use this space to present specific credentials, benefits or special features you offer. This is a chance to highlight the unique and valuable aspects that differentiate you from the competition.
What Level Do You Need? HERE are the basics!
Level 1 - Most electric cars come with a cable that can be plugged into the charge hub of the car on one end and into a standard wall outlet on the other end, with no equipment installation required. It is just like plugging in an appliance like a toaster. This provides a charge of about 3 miles of range per hour. If you drive less then 20 miles a day, this may be all you need.
Level 2 - Most people who have a garage, install a Level 2 charger. This allows for overnight charging that will bring the battery back up to a full charge. More and more workplaces are offering charging for their employees - which is helpful for those without garages. Some people will take advantage of charging with Level 2 when on the road and stopping for an extended time, like for a hike, amusement park ot some other lengthy activity.
Level 3 - This is the way to go when time is of the essence, Most Level 3 chargers will bring you back up to 85% in 20 - 30 minutes. It can be more expensive than charging at home, but still less than paying for gas.
CT State Plans, Laws, Funding, Policies, Regulations, and Goals
Connecticut’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Planning
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) NEVI Formula Program requires the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) to submit an annual EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan (Plan) to the DOT and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Office of Energy and Transportation (Joint Office), describing how the state intends to distribute NEVI funds. The submitted plans must be established according to NEVI guidance.
Zero Emission School Bus Funding and Technical Assistance
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) must establish and administer a grant program to provide matching funds necessary for municipalities, school districts and school bus operators for the purchase or lease of zero-emission school buses and electric vehicle charging stations. School districts within environmental justice communities will be prioritized. In addition, DEEP must provide administrative and technical assistance to municipalities, school districts, and school bus operators that are transitioning to zero-emission school buses and installing electric vehicle charging stations. Reference Connecticut General Statutes 22a-201d)
Zero Emission Transit Bus Acquisition Requirement
Beginning January 1, 2024, the state may not procure, purchase, or lease diesel transit buses. At least 30% of transit buses purchased or leased by the state must be zero-emission by January 1, 2030. The Commissioner of Administrative Services must study and identify barriers to implementing zero-emission buses state-wide and submit a report of the results to the General Assembly by January 1, 2024.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Incentive Requirements
The Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) established a statewide Electric Vehicle Charging Program (Program). The Program requires utilities to offer incentives for EV charging station infrastructure, increased incentive amounts for underserved communities, and special electricity rates for charging EVs. For more information, see the PURA press release and EV Charging Program website.
(Reference PURA Docket No. 17-12-03RE04)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Deployment Goal
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) released the EV Roadmap for Connecticut(PDF) (Roadmap), a framework to accelerate EV adoption. The Roadmap sets a state goal for 20% of the statewide light-duty fleet, or 500,000 vehicles, to be EVs by 2030. The Roadmap complements strategies identified in the Zero Emission Vehicle Deployment Support, including fleet electrification, expanding EV charging station infrastructure, establishing EV charging stations interoperability criteria, minimizing grid impacts, advancing building codes, streamlining permitting requirements, leveraging incentives, and increasing education and outreach. For more information, see the DEEP Roadmap website.
Electric Vehicle Roadmap for Connecticut
On April 21, 2020, the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) released the Electric Vehicle Roadmap for Connecticut: A Policy Framework to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Adoption (EV Roadmap). The EV Roadmap represents a comprehensive strategy for accelerating the deployment of electric vehicles (
For additional details on Connecticut laws, incentives, regulations, funding opportunities, and other initiatives related to electric vehicles, advanced technologies, and/or air quality, visit the Alternative Fuels Data Center.
Utility Incentives
Fleet Electrification Assessment – United Illuminating (UI)
UI offers advisory services to fleets to analyze fleet electrification opportunities. Eligible applicants must be UI customers and include any commercial, private, or public fleet with light-, medium-, or heavy-duty vehicles. For more information, see the UI EV Programs website.
Residential Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate – United Illuminating (UI)
UI offers residential customers a rebate of up to $1,000 for the purchase and installation of a qualified Level 2 EV charging station. Customers may also receive an additional $100 by creating a charging schedule and enrolling in a managed charging program. For more information, see the UI EV Programs website.
Commercial Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate - United Illuminating (UI)
UI offers rebates to commercial, municipal, workplace, and multi-unit dwelling customers who purchase and install qualified Level 2 or direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations. Customers may also receive an additional on-going rebate by creating a charging schedule and enrolling in a managed charging program. Rebates are available for 50% of EV charging station purchase costs and 100% of make-ready installation costs, up to the following amounts:
Electric Vehicle (EV) Time-of-Use (TOU) Rate - United Illuminating (UI)
UI offers a TOU rate for commercial customers that own or lease eligible EVs. For more information, including how to enroll, see the UI EV Programs website.
Electric Vehicle (EV) and EV Charging Station Rebates - Norwich Public Utilities
Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) offers rebates eligible customers for the purchase or lease of a new or previously-owned EV or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and the purchase and installation of a qualified EV charging station. Rebates are available in the following amounts:
Public Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Rate Pilot Program - Eversource
Eversource offers a voluntary rate program for public, separately metered Level 2 or direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations. Eligibility for this rate is subject to the review and approval of Eversource. For more information, visit the Connecticut EV Rate Program website.
Commercial Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate - Eversource
Eversource offers rebates to commercial customers who purchase and install qualified Level 2 or direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations. Rebates are available for up to 50% of EV charging station purchase cost and up to 100% of make-ready installation costs, up to the following amounts:
Residential Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate - Eversource
Eversource offers residential customers a rebate of up to $1,000 for the purchase and installation of a qualified Level 2 EV charging station. For more information, see the Eversource Charging Station Rebates website.
Residential Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Rate Incentive – Eversource
Eversource offers residential customers an incentive of up to $200 to enroll in a demand response managed charging program. For more information, see the Eversource ConnectedSolutions website.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Support
Connecticut utilities joined the National Electric Highway Coalition (NEHC), committing to create a network of direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations connecting major highway systems from the Atlantic Coast to the Pacific of the United States. NEHC utility members agree to ensure efficient and effective fast charging deployment plans that enable long distance EV travel, avoiding duplication among coalition utilities, and complement existing corridor DCFC sites. For more information, including a list of participating utilities and states, see the NEHC website.
About Us
Clean Cities Coalitions are designated by the Department of Energyr's Vehicle Technologies Office and support the nation's energy and economic security by building partnerships to advance affordable domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices. In Connecticut, we have three coalitions that collectively serve all eight counties.
Clean Cities coalitions foster the economic, environmental, and energy security of the United States by working locally to advance affordable, domestic transportation fuels, energy efficient mobility systems, and other fuel-saving technologies and practices.
Connecticut has three coalitions that work collaboratively to serve the entire state. Please contact the Coaliiton Director in your area with any questioins.
