Electricity Laws and Incentives in Massachusetts
The list below contains summaries of all Massachusetts laws and incentives related to electricity.
Laws and Regulations
Public Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Evaluation and Deployment
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) must review and analyze EV charger operation problems and challenges at service plazas located on the Massachusetts Turnpike, in commuter rail station parking lots, and in subway station parking lots that occurred between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022. The analysis must include:
- A record of charger service outages by location;
- Maintenance and repair service records;
- Software or hardware malfunctions that contributed to excessive equipment downtime;
- Recommendations to address EV charger malfunctions and minimize downtime; and,
- Recommendations for effective future deployment of EV charging infrastructure.
Additionally, MassDOT, MBTA, and regional transit authorities must establish provisions for the installation and maintenance of public EV chargers at the following locations:
- All service plazas located on the Massachusetts Turnpike;
- A minimum of five commuter rail station parking lots;
- A minimum of five subway station parking lots; and,
- A minimum of one ferry terminal parking lot.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Section 89, 2022)
Alternative Fuel Offering Requirement
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation may not enter into, renew, or renegotiate a contract with a fuel provider for services on the Massachusetts Turnpike without requiring the provider to offer alternative fuel. Alternative fuel is defined as an energy source that is used to power a vehicle and is not gasoline or diesel.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 6C, Section 75 and Chapter 90, Section 1)
Direct Current (DC) Fast Charger Alternative Rate Structure Requirement
Public electric utilities must file at least one commercial tariff or program with the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) to provide DC fast charger alternative rate structures for demand charges. Each tariff or program must evaluate the relative costs and benefits associated with rate designs for multiple EV adoption scenarios and be filed by July 14, 2021. For more information, including a list of rate design filings and tariffs, see the DPU Net Metering Filings and Tariffs website.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 383, Section 29, 2020)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Adoption Incentive Trust Fund Authorization
Through June 30, 2027, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources must use proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Auction Trust Fund to fund the Green Communities program and the Electric Vehicle Adoption Incentive Trust Fund, subject to sufficient proceeds. Initial payments are to be prioritized to these two programs, and not less than $27,000,000 must be available each fiscal year for the Electric Vehicle Adoption Incentive Trust Fund. This provision is intended to ensure dedicated annual funding to support EV adoption incentives.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 25A Section 10)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Adoption Study
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs must study the feasibility of the 2035 EV-only sales mandate, including a realistic implementation timeline; required charging infrastructure across rural, suburban, and urban areas; and grid capacity and generation needs. The study must solicit input from affected industries and evaluate EV repair and maintenance costs versus gas vehicles. Findings are due to specified legislative committees by July 31, 2025.
(Reference Senate Bill 2967 Section 117, 2024)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Building Standards
Certain commercial buildings with new parking spaces must provide EV-ready spaces according to the total number of parking spaces:
| Number of Parking Spaces | Minimum Number of EV-Ready Spaces |
|---|---|
| 2–6 | 1 |
| 7–13 | 2 |
| 14–20 | 3 |
| 21–40 | 4 |
| 41 or more | 10% but not more than 16 spaces |
An EV-ready space is defined as a designated parking space with a dedicated branch circuit for EV chargers. Additional terms and conditions apply.
(Reference Code of Massachusetts Regulations 780-13 Section C405.13)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Policies for Associations – City of Cambridge
Associations in the City of Cambridge may not prohibit the installation or use of an EV charger in a homeowner’s designated parking space. Associations may put reasonable restrictions on EV chargers, but the policies may not significantly increase the cost of the EV charger or prohibit installation. Homeowners must comply with applicable health and safety codes and architectural standards and engage a licensed installation contractor. The homeowner is responsible for the cost of the installation, operation, maintenance, repair, removal, or replacement of the charger, as well as any resulting damage to the EV charger or surrounding area.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 329, 2022)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Policies for Condos, Historic Districts, and Conservation Associations
A condominium’s governing organization may install EV charging only in common areas, and such installations are not treated as “improvements” requiring Section 18 procedures if a majority of unit owners present at a duly noticed meeting approve. The cost of installing EV charging in common areas is a common expense that may be assessed to unit owners as a special assessment. If the board installs EV charging for use by all members, it must establish appropriate terms of use. Any expenses incurred and revenues generated from EV charging fall under common expenses and common profits. In case of conflict, this provision controls over the master deed, trust, or by-laws, and nothing in it overrides applicable sanitary or building, or energy codes.
Associations, historic district commissions, and neighborhood conservation districts cannot prohibit or unreasonably restrict an owner from installing EV charging equipment in their separate-interest or exclusive-use parking space, though they may impose reasonable restrictions and must weigh climate goals. Installations must be at the owner’s expense, done by a licensed professional, comply with all codes, and go through an application process that is deemed approved if not denied in writing within 60 days. Owners are responsible for all installation, maintenance, and repair costs, any damage, electricity costs (using their own meter if feasible), and removal if needed for property repairs; equitable reimbursement applies if common electricity is used. Associations and districts may also install chargers in common areas for all residents and must set terms of use.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 183A, Section 10)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Safety Guidance
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), in consultation with the Board of Fire Prevention Regulations and the Department of Energy Resources, must issue guidance on the public health, safety, and environmental impacts of electric battery storage and EV chargers. This guidance is due within 6 months of the act’s effective date, providing standards and best practices relevant to EV charging infrastructure. For more information, see MassDEP’s Guidance on Public Health, Safety, and Environmental Impacts of Electric Battery Storage and Electric Vehicle Chargers.
(Reference Senate Bill 2967 Section 122, 2024)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure Deployment Support
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs must facilitate an intergovernmental coordinating council (Council) to develop and implement an EV charging infrastructure deployment plan for the creation of an equitable, interconnected, accessible, and reliable EV charging network. The deployment plan must:
- Comply with state emission reduction requirements;
- Meet existing EV and EV charger deployment benchmarks;
- Facilitate ending the sale of non-zero emission vehicles by December 31, 2035; and,
- Advance the accessibility and affordability of EV chargers.
The deployment plan must also assess:
- The present and future condition of transportation electrification;
- The number and type of EV chargers needed on public and private property;
- Opportunities for EV chargers in urban, suburban, rural, and low- and moderate-income areas;
- The distribution, transmission, and energy storage infrastructure and technology needed to support EV charger deployment;
- Present and future costs of EV charger deployment;
- Technological advancements in EV chargers and related infrastructure;
- Maintenance strategies for EV chargers;
- EV charger installation recommendations and best practices for public and private sector officials; and,
- Policies, laws, and regulatory actions that may facilitate the deployment of chargers and related infrastructure.
The Council must publish the deployment plan by August 11, 2023, and revise the plan biannually.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Section 81, 2022)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging in the Right-of-Way
By July 31, 2025, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities must open a proceeding to facilitate right of way or pole mounted EV charging across the commonwealth and require electric distribution companies and other identified parties to file deployment plans by Dec. 31, 2025. Plans should include deployment schedules; partnerships with municipalities; measures to ensure accessibility and affordability for rural and low and moderate income communities including renters; a focus on Level 2 or higher chargers; use of utility owned poles; funding approaches (e.g., off peak rates) and maintenance/liability provisions; and annual reporting on installations, pricing, outages/downtime, and root causes. The department must approve, conditionally approve, or reject plans by July 31, 2026, without delaying installations already underway before approval.
(Reference Senate Bill 2967 Section 134, 2024)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Efficiency Requirements
EV chargers sold in Massachusetts must meet energy efficiency standards established by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER). For more information, see the DOER Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards website.
(Reference Code of Massachusetts Regulations 225-9)
Electric Vehicle (EV) Guide
The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) must develop a guide and website to provide information about the costs and availability of EVs. MassCEC must also publish EV market projections by August 11, 2023, and update them annually.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Section 86, 2022)
Electric Vehicle Charger Standard
The commissioner of energy resources can change energy efficiency standards, including for electric vehicle charging equipment (EVSE), and may allow models that use more energy than current limits. Any new or updated standard will not take effect for at least one year after it is adopted. EVSE covered by ENERGY STAR must meet the ENERGY STAR EVSE Version 1.2 requirements (revised June 2023). The commissioner can also set or update standards and labeling to support “flexible demand” features that let appliances, including EVSE, shift or schedule when they operate to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
(Reference Senate Bill 2967 Section 30, 2024 and Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 25B, Section 5)
Grid Modernization Plan
The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) must direct each electric utility to develop a modernization plan to upgrade electricity distribution and transmission systems. Plans must include, among other things, a discussion on how distribution system improvements will facilitate transportation electrification. Utilities must update their plans every five years.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Section 92C, 2022 and Massachusetts General Law Chapter 164, Section 92C)
Medium- and Heavy-Duty (MHD) Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Deployment Support
California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington (signatory states) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support the deployment of MHD ZEVs through involvement in a Multi-State ZEV Task Force (Task Force).
In July 2022, the Task Force published a multi-state action plan to support electrification of MHD vehicles. The action plan includes strategies and recommendations to accomplish the goals of the MOU, including limiting all new MHD vehicle sales in the signatory states to ZEVs by 2050, accelerating the deployment of MHD ZEVs, and ensuring MHD ZEV deployment also benefits disadvantaged communities.
For more information, see the MHD ZEVs: Action Plan Development Process website.
Medium- and Heavy-Duty Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Requirement
Massachusetts has adopted the California Advanced Clean Trucks requirements specified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations, requiring manufacturers to meet California’s ZEV production and sales requirements. Beginning with model year 2025, manufacturers will be required to sell zero-emission trucks as an increasing percentage of their annual sales for Class 2b through Class 8 vehicles in Massachusetts. ZEVs include all-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles. For more information, see the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Low Emission Vehicle Program.
(Reference Code of Massachusetts Regulations 310-7.40)
Public Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Requirements
Owners and operators of public EV chargers that require payment must provide payment options that allow access by the public. In addition, payment should not require users to pay a subscription fee or obtain a membership of any kind; however, required fees may be conditional on such memberships. Owners and operators can impose reasonable restrictions on EV charger use, such as limiting access to visitors of the business. In addition, owners and operators of public EV chargers must provide the location, hours of operation, accepted methods of payment, and characteristics of each EV charger to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 25A, Section 16B-16E)
Public Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Standards and Inventory Requirements
The Massachusetts Division of Standards must issue regulations to inventory EV charging stations and ensure the accuracy of pricing and electricity volumes at public stations, including setting minimum requirements for how pricing is communicated and displayed. Stations cannot be shut down due to the division’s inability or omission to test, inspect, seal, or inventory equipment or to verify pricing/volume accuracy. Regulations may vary by technology, power level, networking status, number of chargers per site, site ownership, and inclusion of mobile solar units; they do not apply to chargers at residential properties with up to four units, and the division may set data formats aligned with industry best practices. By May 1 each year, the division must report its inventory and related activities to designated legislative committees and state secretaries, and it may set different requirements for publicly funded/available chargers than for other stations.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 98, Section 59)
Public Electric Vehicle (EV) and EV Charger Procurement
Governmental bodies in Massachusetts are authorized to procure EVs, including school buses, and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) installations, either separately or in a single procurement. EVs are classified as supplies and EVSE plus installation as services, but if procured together, both are treated as supplies. Contracts may be awarded only to bidders who demonstrate the requisite skill, ability, and integrity; certify labor terms including ensuring all on-site employees have completed a 10-hour safety course approved by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration; and obtain the required surety bond. Additional conditions apply.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 30B, Section 23)
Public Utility Definition
An entity that owns, operates, leases, or controls electric vehicle supply equipment is not defined as a public utility.
(Reference Massachusetts Public Utility Docket 13-182)
Public Utility Electric Vehicle (EV) Time-Of-Use (TOU) Rate Proposal Requirement
By August 11, 2023, public electric utilities must submit EV TOU rate proposals to offer EV TOU rates to the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU). When evaluating the TOU rate proposals, DPU must consider the effects on energy conservation, optimal and efficient use of facilities and resources, benefits to transmission and distribution systems, equitable rates for electric consumers, and greenhouse gas emissions reductions. DPU must issue a minimum of one order related to the TOU rate proposals by October 21, 2025.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Section 90, 2022)
State Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Acquisition Requirements
When purchasing new motor vehicles, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts must purchase HEVs or AFVs to the maximum extent feasible and consistent with the ability of such vehicles to perform their intended functions. HEVs and AFVs must be acquired at a rate of at least 5% annually for all new motor vehicle purchases so that not less than 50% of the motor vehicles the Commonwealth owns and operates will be HEVs or AFVs by 2018.
State fleets must also acquire AFVs according to the requirements of the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992 and the Massachusetts Office of Vehicle Management (OVM) must approve any light-duty vehicle acquisition. All agencies must purchase the most economical, fuel-efficient, and low emission vehicles appropriate to their mission. OVM, in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, will set new minimum standards for vehicle fuel economy and work with agencies to acquire vehicles that provide the best value for the Commonwealth on a total cost of ownership basis.
By July 1 of each year, OVM must compile a report detailing the progress made towards these requirements.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 7, Section 9A)
State Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and Infrastructure Deployment Requirements
Massachusetts executive branch agencies and public institutions of higher education must collectively work to meet the following targets, to the extent feasible:
Acquire ZEVs so that the total state fleet consists of:
- 5% ZEVs in 2025;
- 20% ZEVs in 2030;
- 75% ZEVs in 2040; and
- 100% ZEVs in 2050
- Fiscal year (FY) 2023, all vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 8,500 pounds (lbs.) or less.
- FY 2025, all vehicles with a GVWR of 14,000 lbs. or less.
- FY 2030, all vehicles with a GVWR of 14,000 lbs. or more.
- 350 EV chargers in 2025; and
- 500 EV chargers in 2030.
Police vehicles are exempt from these requirements, but public safety agencies are encouraged to meet these requirements as long as vehicles meet operational needs.
Additional conditions apply. For more information, see the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources Leading by Example Program and Leading By Example Progress Dashboard websites.
(Reference Executive Order 594, 2021)
Transportation Emissions Reduction Reporting
Massachusetts must meet annually declining greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions limits for mobile sources, as specified in the Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act. By July 1 of each year, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) must quantify and report aggregate MassDOT transportation GHG emissions. Among other measures to achieve reductions, MassDOT must increase electric vehicles (EVs) within the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority and MassDOT fleet and promote EV use by motorists.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 21N, Section 3 and Code of Massachusetts Regulations 310-60.05)
Transportation Network Company (TNC) Emission Reduction Requirements
By October 1, 2023, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities TNC Division must promulgate requirements for greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions and vehicle electrification for TNCs. As part of these requirements, TNCs must submit biennial plans to increase zero emission vehicles and reduce GHG emissions to meet state emission reduction goals. The promulgated requirements must be in effect by April 1, 2024. The TNC Division must minimize any adverse impacts the requirements may have on drivers from low- and moderate-income communities.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Sections 47 and 92 and Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 159A½, Section 12, and Chapter 25, Section 23)
Vehicle Registration Database
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), in collaboration with other state agencies, must create and maintain a database of vehicle registrations in the Commonwealth. The database must contain the total number of registrations for:
- Passenger fossil fuel-powered vehicles;
- Passenger hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs);
- Passenger zero emission vehicles (ZEVs);
- Commercial fossil fuel-powered vehicles;
- Commercial HEVs; and,
- Commercial ZEVs.
The database must also track the annual number of vehicle miles traveled per vehicle type. MassDOT must update the database and publish a data summary report annually. For more information, see the Massachusetts Vehicle Census page.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Section 78, 2022 and Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 6C, Section 78)
Zero Emission School Bus Study
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) must prepare a report that analyzes:
- The number of internal combustion engine (ICE) school buses and zero emission school buses in the Commonwealth;
- The annual cost of operating zero emission school buses;
- The purchase price of ICE school buses and zero emission school buses;
- The estimated cost to replace ICE school buses with zero emission school buses;
- The estimated environmental benefits of replacing ICE school buses with zero emission school buses; and,
- The number of school districts that own, rent, lease, or contract for school bus services.
The report must also include recommendations for the creation of an incentive program to support the replacement of ICE school buses with zero emission school buses. DESE must publish the report by June 15, 2023.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 179, Section 87, 2022)
Zero Emission Transit Bus Acquisition Requirement
By December 31, 2030, all passenger buses purchased or leased by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) must be zero emission vehicles (ZEVs). By December 31, 2040, all passenger buses operated by the MBTA must be ZEVs.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 448, Section 6A, 2016, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 161A, Section 5, and Session Law Chapter 179, Section 65, 2022)
Zero Emission Transit Bus Deployment Plans and Support
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority capital investment program for mass transportation must include a five-year rolling plan to prioritize the deployment of zero emission buses on routes that service underserved and low-income communities. Each plan must report on the progress of public transit electrification goals, including the number of non-zero emission transit buses, barriers to zero emission transit bus deployment, and legislative recommendations to address adoption barriers.
Additionally, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) must support regional transit authorities in creating electric transit bus adoption plans. Plans must include:
- A goal to transition to zero emission buses;
- The types of zero emission bus technologies a regional transit authority may deploy;
- A schedule for the construction or upgrade of facilities and other infrastructure necessary to deploy and maintain a zero emission bus fleet;
- A schedule for zero emission and internal combustion engine bus purchases and leases;
- The prioritization of zero emission bus deployment in underserved communities;
- A training plan for zero emission bus operators and maintenance staff; and,
- Potential funding sources.
By February 11, 2022, MassDOT must develop and issue recommendations for incentive programs that regional transit authorities may use to deploy and maintain zero emission vehicles.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 448, Section 6A, 2016 and Massachusetts General Law Chapter 25A, Section 1 and 5, and Chapter 161A, Section 5)
Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Deployment Support
Massachusetts joined California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont in signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support the deployment of ZEVs (zero tailpipe emission vehicles) through involvement in a ZEV Program Implementation Task Force (Task Force). In May 2014, the Task Force published a ZEV Action Plan (Plan) identifying 11 priority actions to accomplish the goals of the MOU, including deploying at least 3.3 million ZEVs and adequate fueling infrastructure within the signatory states by 2025. The Plan also includes a research agenda to inform future actions. On an annual basis, each state must report on the number of registered ZEVs, the number of public electric vehicle supply (EV) charging stations and hydrogen fueling stations, and available information regarding workplace fueling for ZEVs.
In June 2018, the Task Force published a new ZEV Action Plan for 2018-2021. Building on the 2014 Action Plan, the 2018 Action Plan makes recommendations for states and other key partners in five priority areas:
- Raising consumer awareness and interest in electric vehicle technology;
- Building out a reliable and convenient residential, workplace and public charging/fueling infrastructure network;
- Continuing and improving access to consumer purchase and non-financial incentives;
- Expanding public and private sector fleet adoption; and
- Supporting dealership efforts to increase ZEV sales.
For more information, see the Multi-State ZEV Task Force website.
Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Parking Space Regulations
A city or town may restrict certain parking areas for ZEVs, which includes battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles. A person who is found responsible for a violation of the restricted parking area may be subject to a penalty of no more than $50 and the vehicle may be removed from the parking spot.
(Reference Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40, Section 22A)
Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) and Infrastructure Support
The ZEV Commission is established to recommend policies to expand access to ZEV infrastructure and to encourage the purchase and lease of these vehicles. The ZEV Commission, comprised of state agencies, is tasked with conducting ZEV feasibility studies on the following topics:
- Evaluating opportunities for electrification of the state fleet, including vehicles used by the regional transit authorities; and
- Assessing surcharges, levies, or other assessments to offset projected gas tax revenue loss from the purchase or operation of ZEVs.
(Reference Session Law Chapter 448, Section 5 and 6, 2016)
State Incentives
Diesel Emissions Reductions Grants
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) provides U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) funding for projects that reduce diesel emissions in Massachusetts. Funding for eligible project costs is available for local or state agencies and public colleges and universities that reduce diesel emissions by converting engines to alternative fuels, retrofitting exhaust controls, purchasing new vehicles, or adding idle reduction equipment. MassDEP prioritizes projects that benefit environmental justice communities. Additional terms and conditions apply. For more information, including funding amounts and how to apply, see the MassDEP Apply for a DERA Open Solicitation Grant website.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Rebate
Residential customers of participating Massachusetts municipal light plants (MLPs) may be eligible for a free or discounted Level 2 EV charger through the Massachusetts NextZero program. Incentives vary by MLP. Select MLPs participate in the NextZero Scheduled Charging Program which provides incentives for EV chargers that follow scheduled charging to avoids peak periods. Additional terms and conditions apply. For more information, including participating MLPs, see the NextZero website.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Grants for Public Fleets
The Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) provides grants for the purchase or lease of qualified EVs and zero emission motorcycles. Eligible applicants include local governments, public universities and colleges, and state agencies. Vehicle incentives are available in the following amounts:
| Vehicle Type | Incentive for Purchase | Incentive for Lease |
|---|---|---|
| All-electric vehicle (EV) | Up to $7,500 | Up to $5,000 |
| Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) | Up to $5,000 | Up to $3,000 |
| Zero emission motorcycle | Up to $750 | N/A |
Applicants may receive funding for a maximum of 25 vehicles, including EVs, PHEVs, and zero emission motorcycles.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. For more information, including funding availability, application, and eligibility requirements, see the Apply for MassEVIP Fleet Incentives website.
Electric Vehicle Emissions Inspection Exemption
Vehicles powered exclusively by electricity are exempt from state motor vehicle emissions inspections. For more information, see the Massachusetts Vehicle Check website.
(Reference Code of Massachusetts Regulations 310-60.02)
Light-Duty Zero Emission Truck Rebates
Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources’ Massachusetts Offers Rebates for Electric Vehicles (MOR-EV) Program offers residents, nonprofits, local and state government fleets, educational institutions, and businesses rebates of up to $7,500 toward either:
- The purchase or lease of eligible new all-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric pick-up trucks with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) between 6,000 pounds (lbs.) and 10,000 lbs.; or,
- The purchase or lease of eligible new all-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles of any body type with a GVWR between 8,501 lbs. and 10,000 lbs.
Eligible vehicles must have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of less than $80,000. For more information, see the MOR-EV Pick-Ups and Class 2b Vehicles website.
Light-Duty Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Incentives
Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources’ Massachusetts Offers Rebates for Electric Vehicles (MOR-EV) Program incentives to residents and non-profit and business fleets for new and used ZEVs for the following amounts when purchasing or leasing a ZEV:
| Incentive | Incentive Amount | Requires household income qualification? |
|---|---|---|
| MOR-EV Standard (New) | $3,500 | No |
| MOR-EV Used | $3,500 | Yes |
| MOR-EV+ (New and Used) | $1,500 | Yes |
| MOR-EV Trade-In | $1,000 | No |
Eligible non-profit and business fleet vehicles may include rental cars, company cars, and light-duty delivery vehicles. Incentives based on household income qualification are available to applicants participating in specific income-qualified state assistance programs. MOR-EV incentives can be stacked. Pre-owned vehicle purchase price must be below $40,000. The incentive is available at the point-of-sale for those who pre-apply, or can be claimed as a rebate within 90 days of the purchase or lease, and incentive recipients must maintain ownership of the vehicle for a minimum of 36 months. Additional conditions apply. For more information, including application and eligibility requirements, see the MOR-EV website.
Massachusetts’ National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Planning
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) NEVI Formula Program required the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to submit an annually updated EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan (Plan) for fiscal years 2022 through 2026 to their FHWA Division Office, describing how the state intended to distribute NEVI funds and their physical and cybersecurity strategies, and including a Community Engagement Outcomes Report. The submitted plans must address updated NEVI Guidance.
For more information about Massachusetts’ NEVI planning process, see the MassDOT NEVI Plan website.
Multi-Family Housing (MFH) and Educational Campus Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Grants
The Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) provides grants for 60% of the cost of Level 1 or Level 2 EV chargers installed at MFHs and educational campuses, up to $50,000 per street address. Eligible entities include private, public, or non-profit MFHs with five or more residential units, and educational campuses with at least 15 students on campus. The program is funded by Massachusetts’ portion of the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. For more information, including funding availability, application, and eligibility requirements, see the Apply for MassEVIP MUD Charging and Educational Campus Incentives website.
Public Access Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Grants
The Public Access Charging Program provides grants to non-residential entities for 80% of the cost of Level 2 EV chargers and installation, and a maximum of $50,000 per street address for hardware and installation costs. Installations at government property qualify for 100% of the cost, up to $50,000. Qualified EV chargers must be available to the public at least 12 hours per day. This program is part of Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) and is funded by Massachusetts’ portion of the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust. For more information, including future funding availability, application, and eligibility requirements, see the MassEVIP Public Access Charging Incentives website.
Taxi and Ride-Hailing Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Incentives
The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center’s Ride Clean Mass program offers incentives to taxi, Lyft, and Uber drivers in Massachusetts to switch to electric vehicles. Rebate amounts are $6,500 for new ZEVs and $2,500 for used ZEVs, and can be stacked with the state’s MOR-EV incentives. There is also an incentive for renting a ZEV of $100 per week for up to 4 weeks. Taxi driver eligibility includes holding a taxi medallion or license, and Lyft or Uber driver eligibility includes 300 passenger rides or 1,500 miles in any two of the previous four quarters. Additional conditions apply. For more information, including application and eligibility requirements, see the Ride Clean Mass program website.
Workplace and Fleet Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Grants
The Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) provides grants for 60% of the cost of Level 1 or Level 2 EV chargers, up to $50,000 per street address. Eligible entities include workplaces and fleets with 15 or more employees on site. Private and non-profit workplaces must have 10 or more employees on site. The program is funded by Massachusetts’ portion of the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. For more information, including funding availability, application, and eligibility requirements, see the Apply for MassEVIP Workplace and Fleet Charging Incentives website.
Zero Emission Truck Rebates
Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources’ Massachusetts Offers Rebates for Electric Vehicles (MOR-EV) Trucks Program offers rebates for the purchase or lease of all-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks, buses, and vans. Eligible vehicles must have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of less than $2,000,000. Rebate amounts are available in a declining three block rate structure, determined by the number of trucks per weight group. Rebates are offered in the following amounts:
| Vehicle Class | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (lbs.) | Block 1 | Block 2 | Block 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 10,001-14,000 | $15,000 | $12,750 | $10,838 |
| 4 | 14,001-16,000 | $30,000 | $25,500 | $21,675 |
| 5 | 16,001-19,500 | $45,000 | $38,250 | $32,513 |
| 6 | 19,501-26,000 | $60,000 | $51,000 | $43,350 |
| 7 | 26,001-33,000 | $75,000 | $63,750 | $54,188 |
| 8 | 33,001+ | $90,000 | $76,500 | $65,025 |
Applicants may apply for a voucher to reserve a rebate at the current rebate block value. A voucher may be provided to an applicant who has demonstrated an intent to purchase, which may be evidenced by a completed purchase order. Applicable vehicles that are registered or operate with an environmental justice community at least 50% of the time are eligible for an additional 10% of the rebate amount.
Applicants must apply for a rebate following the purchase and registration of the truck in Massachusetts and must retain ownership of the truck for a minimum of 48 months. MOR-EV Trucks rebates cannot be combined with funds from the Department of Environmental Protection Volkswagen Settlement-Funded Grant & Incentive Programs or Massachusetts Diesel Emissions Reduction Act programs.
Additional terms and conditions apply. For more information, including the number of currently available rebates, see the MOR-EV Rebate Program website.
More Laws and Incentives
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