DEP Calls For Increased Rebates And $3.4 Million For 54 Fast Chargers

Pennsylvania really wants residents to purchase electric vehicles, even though the commonwealth’s infrastructure may not be suitable yet.

PENNSYLVANIA STATE | On Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced a plan to increase the capacity for electric vehicles throughout the commonwealth. Officials are hopeful that one thousand or more Pennsylvanians will switch from gas-powered vehicles to battery-powered or hybrid alternatives. The plan calls for an increase in the current Alternative Fuel Vehicle rebates offered by the state for working-class Pennsylvanians. 

While the specifics of this new plan are set to be announced at a briefing by DEP Acting Secretary Ramez Ziadeh tomorrow, certain rebate increases took effect on Sept. 1, 2022. The plan also calls for the installation of 54 new charging stations throughout 16 locations in major traffic corridors around the commonwealth to bolster the capacity. Part of the Driving PA Forward program, this new initiative is funded by $3.4 million from the Pennsylvania Volkswagen settlement.

What constitutes as an electric vehicle in Pennsylvania?

Both battery-powered and hybrid vehicles are considered electric vehicles by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).

How many Pennsylvanians drive electric vehicles?

According to the DEP, of over 12 million registered vehicles in Pennsylvania in 2020, approximately 29 thousand are electric.

How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?

The fastest form of charging currently available allows drivers to energize their vehicles in about 30 minutes, providing a 100-150 mile range. Level 2 charging will allow drivers to get about 10-25 miles of range per hour. However, electric vehicles charging through regular wall outlets may only get 1-3 miles per hour of charging, according to the DEP.