New York State launches program to promote EV use

The New York State Department of Public Service is launching a program to promote responsible electric vehicle charging station deployment.

As part of the new Make Ready program, the DPS is directing the state’s major electric utilities to build the grid infrastructure needed to enable the installation of publicly accessible EV charging stations. The program would run through 2025 to coincide with New York’s goal of deploying 850,000 zero-emission vehicles by the end of that year.

“Accelerating electric vehicle ownership is a key component of New York’s nation-leading plan to fight climate change and grow our clean energy economy,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “The Make Ready initiative will direct the State’s utilities to build the grid infrastructure needed to enable the installation of publicly accessible chargers, encouraging more New Yorkers to choose electric vehicles while creating jobs and ensuring our energy dollars stay in-state.”

The report recommends that the utilities establish a criterion to identify potential public charging sites to maximize public charging utilization. Also, the program will provide state residents with over $2.6 billion in net benefits.

The infrastructure will complement the goals of the State’s Drive Clean Rebate initiative, a $70 million rebate program to encourage the use of EVs. Since it was launched, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority has approved more than $29 million in rebates for New Yorkers who purchased or leased certain EVs. Most people received rebates of $1,100 or more for their new electric cars.

“The energy system of the future and the transportation system of the future need electric vehicles. This report proposes smart, forward-looking utility investments that are good for both electric customers and for car owners, and that accelerate Governor Cuomo’s clean energy and clean transportation strategy,” Department of Public Service CEO John Rhodes said.