Did you know Massachusetts has seen an almost 30% increase in EVs between 2023 and 2024? During the same period, there has also been almost a 25% increase in EV charging ports. The rise in the demand for electric vehicles isn’t surprising, as we are seeing concentrated efforts from the state to promote EVs by offering incentives to individuals and businesses that install EV charging stations.
Like other states, Massachusetts is taking strides in promoting electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Massachusetts EV rebate program, better known as the Massachusetts Offers Rebates for Electric Vehicles (MOR-EV) Program, encourages people to switch to sustainable transportation.
Massachusetts Commercial EV Rebates
While there has been an uptick in individual customers switching to EVs, the real test for the state and the federal government is encouraging commercial customers to install EV chargers. Lack of charging stations and range anxiety were the primary reasons that kept people in the United States away from EVs.
While automobile manufacturers have addressed the range anxiety, the federal and state governments are working on the charging infrastructure. The state of Massachusetts is actively promoting the installation of EV chargers for commercial and institutional users under the MassEVIP (Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program).
As of 2024, MassEVIP has supported the installation of over 1,000 charging ports across the state, significantly enhancing the accessibility of EV charging for the public.
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) administers the MassEVIP program, which provides financial aid to businesses, non-profits, and government entities for installing EV charging stations. This program covers the diverse needs of non-profit and for-profit organizations as follows.
Workplace & Fleet Charging
Private, public, and non-profit workplaces that have at least 15 employees on-site and fleets are eligible for the Massachusetts charging stations rebate program.
It covers up to 60% of the cost for Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging stations, with a cap of $50,000 per site. It is a major encouragement for businesses to encourage their employees to buy EVs by having on-site chargers.
Multi-Unit Dwelling & Educational Campus Charging
MassEVIP program offers similar funding for properties with multiple tenants and educational campuses with at least 15 on-site students. Such institutions can claim a rebate for Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging stations with a maximum cap of $50,000 per site.
Public Access Charging
Businesses such as shopping centers and retail establishments can claim rebates from the government upon installing publicly accessible EV chargers. These chargers must be easily accessible to all EV owners.
Learn EV Charger Installation Costs – Get the Best Rates!
Utility Company & Municipal Incentives for Businesses
Massachusetts commercial EV rebate isn’t limited to the government alone, as several utility companies are also jumping into the fray. It is a win-win situation for both businesses and utility companies.
While commercial businesses can save on the upfront costs of installing chargers, utility companies can also monetize their excess capacity by opening up a new revenue stream.
Eversource Energy, one of Massachusetts’s leading players in the clean energy mission, has launched the Make-Ready Program. This program helps businesses cover the electrical infrastructure upgrades needed for EV charging stations.
This program covers up to 100% of the infrastructure costs and offers assistance in charging station equipment and networking fees. Similarly, the National Grid has launched its EV Charging Program, which provides funding for site preparation and installation of commercial EV chargers.
Several Municipal Light Plants (MLPs) in Massachusetts have joined the initiative to encourage commercial customers to invest in EV charging stations. They offer incentives to support businesses in adopting EV charging infrastructure.
These programs often include rebates for purchasing and installing Level 2 chargers and reduced electricity rates for EV charging. For example, the Concord Municipal Light Plant and Belmont Light offset costs with grants for charging stations.
Federal Tax Credit
The federal government offers a tax credit to support businesses installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Under the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit (IRC 30C), commercial entities can claim a tax credit of 30% of the total installation costs, up to a maximum of $100,000 per charging station.
What makes this program particularly beneficial for commercial entities in Massachusetts is that the program covers DC Fast Chargers, along with Level 2, which the Massachusetts commercial EV rebate program covers. Workplaces, retail locations, and fleet depots are eligible for the tax credit.
How To Install Chargers and Claim EV Charging Rebates
You already have gained a fair idea about the Massachusetts EV rebates. Let us now take you through claiming tax rebates in this step-by-step guide.
Step 1 - Understand The Eligibility Criteria
Start by researching the eligibility criteria for the Massachusetts EV rebate. A quick online research will offer you a fair idea about EV tax credits in mass.
Step 2 - Engage a Cooperative Purchasing Agency
Installing EV chargers and claiming Massachusetts commercial EV rebates involves a lot of paperwork. It would be wise to hire the services of a Cooperative Purchasing Agencies that pre-negotiate contracts with vendors to ensure competitive pricing and access to pre-approved EV charging equipment and installation services. They also assist in rebate applications by compiling necessary documents.
Step 3 - Select an Approved Vendor and Equipment
Many rebates require businesses to purchase pre-approved EV chargers from qualified vendors. Cooperative agencies maintain vendor lists that comply with incentive requirements.
Step 4 – Choose An Ideal Location
A commercial EV charging station should be easily accessible. Hence, you need to choose the perfect location within your premises to install a maximum number of charging ports and keep room for future expansion.
Step 5 - Apply for Pre-Approval
State and utility programs may require pre-approval before installation. Submit an application detailing things such as the number of chargers, the plan of the proposed installation site and the cost estimates.
Step 6 - Install the Charging Stations
After approval, proceed with the installation using an authorized contractor. Your cooperative agency like EVgpo will help you in this step and use their expertise to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Step 7 - Submit Rebate Application
Once installation is complete, submit proof of purchase and installation and all necessary documentation to claim your rebates.
The rebates program and the federal government tax credits are helping Massachusetts businesses switch to greener and more sustainable mobility solutions.
Whether you are a small or a large business in Massachusetts, these incentives make it an opportune time to join the electric revolution. By installing charging stations at your premises, you will be investing in technology in the future.