Empowering New York Commercial Properties with EV Charging Incentives

The increasing adoption of electric vehicles in New York presents both a challenge and an opportunity for commercial property owners. While the demand for EV charging infrastructure is rising sharply, the costs associated with installation can seem daunting. Property owners are asking: How do we meet this growing need, enhance our properties, and remain competitive? The good news is that New York State is actively supporting this transition through substantial incentive programs.

New York State is experiencing a significant surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, creating a dynamic landscape for commercial property owners. The growth of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) registrations, in particular, demonstrates the rapid pace of this transition.

To illustrate this growth:

• In 2020, there were 10,524 new BEV registrations in NYS.
• The following year, 2021, saw a dramatic jump to 20,279 new BEV registrations.
• This upward trend continued, with 28,002 new BEV registrations in 2022.
• In 2023, new BEV registrations reached 48,365.

And in 2024, new BEV registrations climbed to 56,138. These figures highlight some significant increases:

• The jump from 2020 to 2021 represents a substantial 93% increase in new BEV registrations, showcasing a near doubling of adoption within a single year.
• The increase from 2022 to 2023 also demonstrates rapid growth, with new BEV registrations increasing by over 72%.

This rapid increase in BEV adoption translates into a valuable opportunity for commercial properties. The growing number of BEVs on the road necessitates accessible and reliable charging infrastructure.

Understanding the Program

The NYSERDA Charge Ready NY 2.0 Program aims to expand access to public and workplace charging across the state by providing EVSE Funding in New York City and across the state. By reducing the financial burden of installation, the program encourages property owners to play a vital role in building out the necessary charging network to support the growing number of EV drivers.

NYSERDA Incentives and Eligibility

The NYSERDA Charge Ready NY 2.0 Program provides specific incentives based on the project type and location. Here’s a summary of the available incentives and criteria:

• Note: Charging stations installed in assigned parking spaces reserved for the exclusive use of an individual driver or reserved for fleet vehicles will only be eligible for $1,000 per port.

NYSERDA Bonus Incentives

Workplace and Multi-Unit Dwelling locations qualify for additional incentives of $4,000 (small locations) or $10,000 (large locations). To participate in these additional incentives, please reference the requirements linked below. For the most detailed and up-to-date information on eligibility requirements, incentive amounts, and application procedures, please visit the official NYSERDA program page: https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/All-Programs/Charge-Ready-NY/Eligible-Charging-Equipment-and-Networks

Understanding the Make-Ready Program

Installing EV charging stations often requires significant electrical infrastructure upgrades, which can be a substantial cost for property owners. The Joint Utilities of NY Make-Ready Program is designed to alleviate this burden by providing funding to cover these necessary upgrades. Simply put, the Make-Ready Program focuses on the “make-ready” costs associated with preparing a site for EV charging. These costs can include:

By covering these expenses, the program significantly reduces the upfront investment required for property owners to install EV charging stations. This encourages the expansion of charging infrastructure and supports the growing number of EV drivers in New York.

Participating Utilities

The Joint Utilities of NY Make-Ready Program is a collaboration between several major utility companies in the state:

Incentives and Eligibility

If your property is located within the service territory of any of these utilities, you may be eligible for the Make-Ready Program. The Make-Ready Program may cover up to 100% of the electric infrastructure costs associated with new non-residential EV charging stations. The specific incentive level depends on several factors, including the project type, location, and utility service territory.

• Up to 100% Incentive:
  • Publicly available DCFC projects with standardized plug types located within Disadvantaged Communities (DACs).
  • Publicly available DCFC projects with proprietary plug types (that also include an equal number of standardized plugs) located within DACs.
  • L2 projects at eligible Multi-Unit Dwellings (MUDs).
  • L2 curbside projects within or adjacent to a DAC.
• Up to 90% Incentive:
  • Publicly available L2 and DCFC projects with standardized plug types.
  • Publicly available L2 and DCFC projects with proprietary plugs (that also have an equal or greater number of standardized plugs), including municipal pay-to-park and free parking offered while charging.
• Up to 50% Incentive:
  • Non-public L2 and DCFC projects, such as workplaces or MUDs with restricted access, and privately owned pay-to-park lots that require payment for parking while charging.
  • Public and non-public L2 and DCFC projects with proprietary plugs that do not include an equal or greater number of standardized plugs of equal or greater charging capacity.

Enhanced Incentive Eligibility
The incentive levels described above can be further enhanced or modified based on specific criteria. The following table provides a detailed breakdown:

• Note: The information provided here is for illustrative purposes. Individual utilities reserve the right to make determinations regarding incentive level eligibility. Please see EV Make-Ready Program | Joint Utilities for the latest information and eligibility requirements.