LIPA Plugin-in Electric Vehicle Rebate Program

 
Plug-in Electric Vehicle (PEV) technologies allow vehicles to plug into the electric grid to charge their high capacity batteries to better utilize the vehicle’s electric motor while driving. This results in a vehicle capable of achieving very high fuel economy, in some cases exceeding 100 miles per gallon of gasoline, at a reduced vehicle fueling cost and with reduced tailpipe emissions. There are 2 types of plug-in electric vehicles:

A Plug-In Electric Vehicle (PEV) is powered by an all electric motor rather than a gasoline engine and must be connected by a plug to the electric grid. A PEV is also combined with rechargeable batteries that can be restored to full charge by connecting a plug to an external electric power source.A Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) has an electric motor, rechargeable batteries and an internal combustion engine; and therefore, is not entirely dependent on plugging into the electric grid as a fuel source.  
LIPA Plugin-in Electric Vehicle Rebate Program

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to receive the rebate?
Only LIPA’s residential customers whose accounts are active may qualify. This is a one-time only $500 mail-in rebate for qualifying Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) or Plug-In Electric Vehicles (PEV) as defined in the rebate form. Qualifying PHEVs or PEVs must be purchased, registered and owned by the LIPA customer during the period beginning January 1, 2012 and ending December 31, 2012 at the address listed on the application. The rebate applies to passenger PHEVs and PEVs and does not apply to leased, commercial or restricted use vehicles. LIPA reserves the right to modify or withdraw this rebate program at any time.

What cars would qualify for 2012?
At this time the only qualifying vehicles are the Chevrolet Volt (PHEV) and Nissan Leaf (PEV) passenger cars.

How do I apply for a rebate?
Submit a completed PHEV or PEV Rebate Application (PDF) and include a copy of a valid Bill of Sale and a copy of the New York State vehicle registration from a qualifying purchase of a PHEV or PEV completed prior to December 31, 2012. All applications must be received at LIPA by 5:00 PM on January 31, 2013. Valid and complete PHEV/ PEV applications will be processed for payment within 60 days of receipt.

What are the benefits of owning an electric vehicle?
Cleaner vehicle technologies help everyone breathe easier, cut down greenhouse gas emissions and reduce our dependence on foreign oil. It also costs less to run an electric vehicle. By using grid electricity to supplement vehicle energy needs, a PHEV can achieve up to double the gasoline fuel economy (miles per gallon) of a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) (ie Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, etc), with some PHEVs delivering more than 100 mpg under moderate driving conditions and driving styles.

Are there any government incentives to purchase this car?
Buyers may seek a $7,500 federal tax credit for the first 200,000 vehicles sold. For more details go to http://www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm.

How much will charging an electric car cost me?
The charging cost will vary depending on customer’s residential rate, when the charging occurs if the customer is on a Time-of-Use rate, and the amount of energy consumed while charging the vehicle’s batteries. The typical residential rate is about $0.20 per kWh (including tax & surcharge). LIPA’s published rate codes are available online. Please check back with our website to find out about new Time of Use rates that may save you money.

When is the best time of day to charge my vehicle?
Even though electric rates may differ depending on the time of day, LIPA recommends customers charge their vehicle between the hours of 11 PM and 7 AM when the electric delivery system is least busy. Please consult LIPA’s residential electric rate codes for more information.

Is my electric service sufficient in terms of size (amperage) and voltage?
The Nissan LEAF and Chevrolet Volt may be charged via Level I a single phase 120 and / or Level II 240V power source. LIPA recommends, in addition to consulting the vehicle’s manufacturer and or dealership for charging requirements, having your electrical service evaluated and a Level II charging station that supports 240 V installed by a licensed electrical contractor prior to vehicle purchase.

How long does a FULL charge take?
According to their published specifications, the Nissan LEAF will take approximately 7hrs to reach full charge on its 240V home charging system, while the Chevrolet Volt will reach full charge in approximately 10 hrs using a 120V household outlet. A level II 240V permanent home charging station can be installed for faster charging and to take advantage of LIPA’s Time-of-Use rates.

What is the estimated cost to install an exterior or in garage charging system?
While LIPA does not provide such a service, contact the respective vehicle manufacturer or dealership for charging system requirements in addition to a licensed electrical contractor.


 

Additional Information
For more information please visit:

LIPA Plugin-in Electric Vehicle Rebate Program