Hartford, CT - Just what is the eBike incentive program in Connecticut? The incentive is a voucher that you must apply for and obtain before you purchase a qualifying new eBike from a participating eBike retailer in Connecticut. There are two voucher amounts: the Standard Voucher is $500 and the enhanced “Voucher+” is $1,000. The vouchers are ‘stackable’ so qualifying Connecticut residents in EJ or disadvantaged communities will be eligible for a $1,500 incentive.
In line with the CHEAPR Rebate+ EV incentive, there are three ways to qualify for Voucher+, including:
- households that have incomes at or below 300% of the federal poverty level, individuals who reside within one of the state’s delineated distressed municipalities and environmental justice neighborhoods, and individuals who qualify for other state and federal income qualified programs.
How to Apply for the eBike Incentive
The application portal opened at 9:00 a.m. on June 28, 2023. To qualify for a Standard Voucher, applicants must be 18 years or older and in possession of a valid driver’s license or state identification card. Qualified applicants must first register for their eBike voucher and receive approval from the Program before purchasing an eligible eBike.
Vouchers may only be redeemed for eligible eBikes by a participating eBike retailer. To find a participating eBike retailer near you, go to www.drivecheapr.org/ebikes. If you are a bike shop who sells eligible eBikes and you have not yet registered for the program, please do so here: Participating-eBike-Retailer-Enrollment-Form.pdf (ct.gov).
eBike Safety Considerations
Fires from inferior eBikes are a growing concern in both Connecticut and around the country as they become a more popular mode of transportation. In response to safety concerns associated with inferior eBike batteries, Connecticut is adopting some of the first in the nation minimum battery quality and safety criteria requirements for eligible eBikes. In order for an eBike to be included in DEEP’s program, it must be on the eligible eBike list and include a one (1) year warranty andeither UL 2849 or EN 15194 certification for battery and electrical components. DEEP is adopting these minimum requirements with the goal of pushing the industry to provide reliable and safe eBikes.