As other states, including Georgia and Illinois, are eliminating their tax incentives for EV purchases, Massachusetts has allocated an additional $2 million to its Massachusetts Offers Rebates for Electric Vehicles (MOR-EV) program, which offers rebates of up to $2,500 to residents who buy or lease plug-in or fuel cell vehicles.

The MOR-EV program was initially funded with $2 million in Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) auction proceeds, which also finance the new funding. To date, it has provided rebates for over 700 zero- and low-emission vehicles.

“The electric vehicle market is growing, but like any innovative sector, it needs supportive policies in order to reach its full potential,” said Representative Frank Smizik (D-Brookline). “The MOR-EV Program is one of many great opportunities our state has to support this market and reduce emissions in the transportation sector.”

“This rebate program represents a strong partnership between consumers and the Baker Administration to make a cost-effective transition to greater energy independence and less carbon emissions,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester). “Because of this increase, that partnership will grow stronger and be more successful.”

Naturally, the Sierra Club is pleased. “Electric vehicles have off-the-charts customer satisfaction ratings because they are fun to drive, and people love zooming right past the gas station,” said spokesperson Gina Coplon-Newfield.

Car dealers also applauded the news. “The MOR-EV program has been a success and our member dealers will continue to embrace their essential role in this ‘green’ initiative” said Robert O’Koniewski, Executive VP of the Massachusetts State Automobile Dealers Association.

Source: Mass.gov via Green Car Congress
Image: Nicolas Raymond (CC BY 2.0)