The state of Massachusetts has announced that it will extend its electric vehicle rebate program through the middle of next year, while also tightening eligibility requirements.

Republican Governor Charlie Baker’s office announced that the popular MOR-EV program will now run through at least June 30, 2019.

Starting on January 1, the program will provide a $1,500 rebate only to battery-electric or fuel cell vehicles with a purchase price of $50,000 or below. Leased vehicles with a lease term of at least 36 months are also eligible.

Since 2014, the program has issued over $23 million in rebates for more than 11,000 cars, and has reduced the state’s greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 35,000 metric tons annually.

Massachusetts also plans to continue to support EV charging infrastructure through the VW Settlement Funds, the Department of Energy Resources’ Green Communities funds for municipalities and various utility-sponsored programs.

Source: Associated Press via E&E News