Search Federal and State Laws and Incentives

Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) Sales Tax Exemption

Vehicles, vehicle power sources, or parts used for converting a vehicle power source to reduce emissions are exempt from state sales and use tax. Exempt vehicles include vehicles certified to federal LEV standards that have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of over 26,000 pounds (lbs.). The exemption also applies if the GVWR is greater than 10,000 lbs. and if the vehicle, power source, or parts used for converting the power source meet the definition of a category 4, 4A, 4B, 4C, 7, or 7A truck, as defined in Colorado Revised Statutes 39-22-516.8. The vehicle power source includes the engine or motor and associated wiring, fuel lines, engine coolant system, fuel storage containers, and other components.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 39-26-719)

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Weight Exemption

Gross vehicle weight rating limits for AFVs are 2,000 pounds greater than those for comparable conventional vehicles, as long as the AFVs operate using an alternative fuel or both alternative and conventional fuel, when operating on a highway that is not part of the interstate system. For the purpose of this exemption, alternative fuel is defined as compressed natural gas, propane, ethanol, or any mixture containing 85% or more ethanol (E85) with gasoline or other fuels, electricity, or any other fuels, which may include clean diesel and reformulated gasoline, so long as the Colorado Air Quality Control Commission determines that these other fuels result in comparable reductions in carbon monoxide emissions and brown cloud pollutants.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-4-508 and 24-30-1104 (2)(c)(III)(A))

Gasoline and Diesel Gallon Equivalent Definition

Motor fuels, including alternative fuels, may be sold by gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) or diesel gallon equivalent (DGE) as long as the dispenser used for the sale of motor fuel in GGEs or DGEs clearly displays the applicable conversion factor and other required information. (Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 8-20-232.5)

State Agency Alternative Fuel Use and Vehicle Acquisition Requirement

The Colorado Department of Personnel and Administration (DPA) requires all state-owned diesel vehicles and equipment to be fueled with a diesel blend of 20% biodiesel (B20), subject to the availability of the fuel and so long as the price differential is not greater than $0.10 more per gallon compared to conventional diesel. Biodiesel is defined as fuel composed of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from plant or animal matter that meets ASTM specifications and is produced in Colorado. DPA must increase the use of alternative fuels and establish objectives to increase its use for each succeeding year. DPA must purchase motor vehicles that operate on compressed natural gas (CNG), electric vehicles, or vehicles that operate on other alternative fuels, subject to the availability of vehicles and adequate fueling infrastructure and assuming the incremental base or life cycle cost of the vehicle is not more than 10% over the cost of a comparable dedicated conventional vehicle. Some vehicles may be exempt from this requirement if available alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) do not meet application requirements. On or before November 1 of each year, DPA must submit a report to the general assembly outlining vehicle purchases, including alternative fuel and conventional vehicles; alternative fueling infrastructure availability in the state; AFV purchase exemptions; administrative policies in place to facilitate the purchase of AFVs; suggested changes to facilitate the gradual conversion of the motor vehicle fleet to AFVs; and a plan for the necessary infrastructure development.

(Reference Executive Order D 2015-013, 2015 and Colorado Revised Statutes 24-30-1104)

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Registration

Upon registering a motor vehicle with the Colorado Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles, the vehicle owner must report the type of alternative fuel used to operate the vehicle and whether the vehicle is dedicated to one alternative fuel or uses more than one fuel. The Department of Revenue provides forms for the purpose of registering motor vehicles and must include space for the following fuel types: gasoline, diesel, propane, electricity, natural gas, methanol/M85, ethanol/E85, biodiesel, and other. For more information, see the Colorado Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles website.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-3-113)

Renewable and Alternative Fuel Storage Tank Regulations

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Division of Oil and Public Safety, enforces rules concerning the placement of underground and aboveground storage tanks that contain alternative and renewable fuel. For the purpose of these regulations, an alternative fuel is a motor fuel that combines petroleum-based fuel products with renewable fuels; a renewable fuel is a motor vehicle fuel produced from plant or animal products or wastes. (Reference 7 Code of Colorado Regulations 1101-14 and Colorado Revised Statutes 8-20.5-202 and 8-20.5-302)

Electric Vehicle (EV) and EV Charging Station Grants

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) provides grants through the Charge Ahead Colorado program to support EV and EV charging stations adoption by individual drivers and fleets. Grants will fund 80% of the cost of EV charging station, up to $6,000 for a fleet-only Level 2 station, $9,000 for a dual port Level 2 station, up to $35,000 for a direct current fast charging (DCFC) station capable of providing at least 50 kilowatts (kW), and up to $50,000 for a DCFC station capable providing at least 100kW. Eligible EV charging stations applicants include local governments; state and federal government agencies; public universities; public transit agencies; private non-profit or for-profit corporations; landlords of multi-unit dwellings; and owners associations of common interest communities. For more information, including application deadlines, see the Charge Ahead Colorado Grant Application website and the CEO Charge Ahead Colorado website.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 24-38.5-103)

Low-Speed Electric Vehicle (EV) Access to Roadways

A low-speed EV is self-propelled using electricity as its primary propulsion method, has at least three wheels in contact with the ground, does not use handlebars to steer, displays a vehicle identification number, and meets manufacturer requirements as defined in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations section 565. A low-speed EV may be operated on a roadway with a speed limit of up to 40 miles per hour (mph) as long as the roadway’s lane is at least 11 feet wide, the roadway provides two or more lanes in either direction, and the Colorado Department of Transportation has determined that operation of a low-speed EV on the roadway poses no substantial safety risk. Otherwise, a low-speed EV may only be operated on a roadway with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Regardless, a low-speed EV may directly cross any roadway with a speed limit greater than 35 mph. A Class-B low-speed EV is defined as a low-speed EV that is capable of traveling at greater than 25 mph but less than 45 mph. A Class-B low-speed EV may be operated only on a roadway with a speed limit of 45 mph or less, but may directly cross a roadway with a speed limit greater than 45 mph. The Colorado Department of Revenue may not register or issue a title for a Class-B low-speed EV until after the U.S. Department of Transportation has adopted a federal motor vehicle safety standard for low-speed EVs that authorizes operation at greater than 25 mph but less than 45 mph. Neither a low-speed EV nor a Class-B low-speed EV may be operated on a limited-access highway.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 12-6-120, 42-1-102, 42-4-109.5, 42-4-109.6)

Public Utility Definition

A corporation or individual that resells alternative fuel supplied by a public utility for use in an alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) is not subject to regulation as a public utility. Additionally, a corporation or individual that owns, controls, operates, or manages a facility that generates electricity exclusively for use in AFV charging or fueling facilities is not subject to regulation as a public utility provided that the electricity is generated on the property where the charging or fueling facilities are located and the electricity is generated from a renewable resource. For the purposes of this definition, alternative fuel is defined as propane, liquefied natural gas, compressed natural gas, or electricity.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 40-1-103.3)

Natural Gas Fueling Station Air Quality Permit Exemption

Natural gas fueling stations are exempt from the requirement to file Air Pollutant Emission Notices.

(Reference Colorado Air Quality Control Commission Regulations Number 3, Part A, Section II.D.1.hhh)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Policies for Multi-Unit Dwellings

A tenant may install Level 1 or Level 2 EV charging station at their own expense on or in leased premises. The landlord may seek a fee or reimbursement for the actual cost of electricity as well as the cost of installation or upgrades to existing equipment. In addition, the tenant may request that the EV charging station be accessible by other tenants, in which case the EV charging station must comply with all applicable property requirements, and the landlord may seek a fee to reserve a specific parking space. The landlord may also require the tenant to comply with safety, system registration, and aesthetic requirements or provisions.

Common interest communities must also provide residents with an opportunity to charge EVs and may not create restrictions around EV charging stations. Common interest communities are encouraged to allow EV charging stations and to apply for grants from the Electric Vehicle Grant Fund or otherwise fund the installation of EV charging stations on common property as an amenity for residents and guests.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 38-12-601 and 38-33.3-106.8)

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 38-12-601 and 38-33.3-106.8)

Alternative Fuel Tax

Compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), and propane are subject to excise tax imposed on a per gallon basis as follows:

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 39-27-102)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Fee

EV owners must pay an annual fee of $50 for an EV decal, in addition to other registration fees. For registration periods beginning during Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 and every subsequent year, the Colorado Department of Revenue is authorized to adjust the registration fee for inflation. Additionally, beginning in FY 2022, the state may collect an EV road usage equalization fee at the time of registration. Registration fees for each FY are as follows:

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-3-304)

Vehicle Fleet Maintenance and Fuel Cost-Savings Contracts

Government fleets may finance the lease or purchase cost of alternative fuel vehicles and alternative fueling infrastructure through energy performance contracts where vehicle operational and fuel cost savings pay for the capital investment. Energy performance contracts must show that the annual cost savings associated with the fueling and maintenance of vehicles with higher efficiency ratings or alternative fueling methods is equal to or higher than the annual contract payments.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 24-30-2001 through 24-30-2003 and 29-12.5-101 through 29-12.5-104)

Natural Gas Fueling Station Regulations

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Division of Oil and Public Safety, enforces regulations concerning the design, construction, siting, installation, and operation of retail natural gas fueling stations, including mobile fueling vehicles and equipment.

(Reference 7 Code of Colorado Regulations 1101-16 and Colorado Revised Statutes 8-20.5-202 and 8-20.5-302)

Idle Reduction Weight Exemption

Any motor vehicle equipped with a qualified auxiliary power unit or idle reduction technology may exceed the state’s gross, total axle, or bridge formula vehicle weight limits by up to 550 pounds to compensate for the additional weight of the idle reduction technology. To be eligible for the weight exemption, the vehicle operator must be able to provide written proof of idle reduction technology weight and demonstrate or certify that it is fully functional at all times.

(Reference 8 Code of Colorado Regulations 1507-28)

Electric Vehicle (EV) and Infrastructure Coaching Service

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) administers the ReCharge Colorado program (ReCharge) to advance the adoption of EVs and installation of charging infrastructure in Colorado. ReCharge provides coaching services to consumers, local governments, workplaces, and multi-unit dwellings to help them identify monetary savings, grant opportunities, and other EV benefits. ReCharge also helps build local stakeholder support for EVs. For more information, see the CEO ReCharge Colorado website.

Electric Vehicle Emissions Inspection Exemption

Vehicles powered exclusively by electricity are exempt from state motor vehicle emissions inspections. For more information, see the Air Care Colorado website.

(Reference Code of Colorado Regulations 204-11)

Advanced Industries (AI) Accelerator Program Grants

The Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade (OEDIT) provides grants through the AI Accelerator Programs to promote growth and sustainability in Colorado’s AIs. Grants may be available for advanced industries such as vehicle and component manufacturing and biofuels. Four types of grants are available, including Proof of Concept, Early-Stage Capital and Retention, Collaborative Infrastructure, and AI Exports. For more information on each grant program, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, see the OEDIT AI Accelerator Programs website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Tax Credit

Qualified EVs titled and registered in Colorado are eligible for a tax credit. Light-duty EVs purchased or leased before January 1, 2026, are eligible for a tax credit equal to the amounts below, per calendar year:

The credit amount for any qualifying truck is limited to the difference in manufacturer’s suggested retail price between the qualifying truck and a comparable truck that operates on either gasoline or diesel fuel.

Eligible purchased vehicles must be new, and eligible leased vehicles must have a lease term of not less than two years. A purchaser may assign the tax credit generated through the purchase or lease to any of the above categories of vehicle to the financing entity, allowing the purchaser to realize the value of the tax credit at the time of purchase or lease. The financing entity may collect an administrative fee of no more than $150.

For more information, see the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Income 69 FYI publication.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 39-22-516.5, 39-22-516.7, and 39-22-516.8)

Hydrogen Fueling Station Regulations

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, Division of Oil and Public Safety (OPS), enforces rules concerning retail hydrogen fueling stations. The rules include information regarding inspections, specifications, shipment notification, record keeping, labeling of containers, use of meters or mechanical devices for measurement, submittal of installation plans, and minimum standards for the design, construction, location, installation, and operation of stations. For more information, see the OPS Regulations and Statues website.

(Reference 7 Code of Colorado Regulations 1101-17 )

Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Testing and Operation Support

Colorado state agencies must support the testing and operation of AVs. AV usage is authorized if the driving system complies with state and federal laws, or if approved by the Colorado State Patrol and the Colorado Department of Transportation. AVs are motor vehicles equipped with technology that allows vehicle automation to perform one or more driving functions without the direct control of the driver.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-1-102, 42-4-110, and 42-4-242)

Regional Electric Vehicle (REV) West Plan

Colorado joined Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming (Signatory States) in signing the REV West memorandum of understanding (MOU) to create an Intermountain West Electric Vehicle (EV) Corridor that will make it possible to seamlessly drive an EV across the Signatory States' major transportation corridors.

• Educate consumers and fleet owners to raise EV awareness, reduce range anxiety, and increase EV adoption;
• Coordinate on EV charging station locations to achieve a consistent user experience across Signatory States;
• Use and promote the REV West Voluntary Minimum Standards for EV charging stations and explore opportunities for implementing the standards in Signatory States;
• Identify and develop opportunities to incorporate EV charging stations into planning and development processes such as building codes, metering policies, and renewable energy generation projects;
• Encourage EV manufacturers to stock and market a wide variety of EVs within the Signatory States;
• Identify, respond to, and collaborate on funding opportunities to support the development of the plan; and
• Support the build-out of direct current (DC) fast charging stations along EV corridors through investments, partnerships, and other mechanisms.

Colorado Electric Vehicle (EV) Plan

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), along with the Transportation Electrification Workgroup, will develop a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) and clean transportation plan containing strategies that support the deployment of ZEVs and expand mobility options to save energy, reduce congestion, and improve the safety of Colorado’s transportation network. In April 2020, CDOT released the Colorado EV Plan 2020, establishing a long-term goal of 100% of light-duty vehicles (LDVs) being electric and 100% of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles being ZEVs. To meet these goals, Colorado must:

• Increase the number of light-duty EVs to 940,000 by 2030;
• Develop plans for transitioning medium- and heavy-duty (MHDV) and transit vehicles to ZEVs;
• Develop an EV infrastructure goal by undertaking a gap analysis to identify the type and number of charging stations needed across the state to meet 2030 LDV and MHDV goals;
• Develop a roadmap to full electrification of the light-duty vehicle fleet in Colorado;

• State government agencies must meet directives and goals related to EVs. Beginning in Fiscal Year (FY) 2022, and each subsequent FY, the Colorado Energy Office and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment must consult with CDOT to prepare an annual report detailing the progress made toward the EV adoption goals.

  (Reference Executive Order B 2019 002, 2019 and Colorado Revised Statutes 24-38.5-110)

Impact Assistance Program for Public Fleets

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) offers funding for the incremental cost of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and alternative fueling infrastructure for public fleets. Eligible entities include municipalities, counties, and special districts. For more information, see the DOLA Energy Impact Assistance Fund Grant website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate - Gunnison County Electric Association (GCEA)

GCEA offers rebates to residential customers for the purchase of Level 2 EV charging station. Eligible customers may receive a rebate for 50% of the cost to purchase and install an EV charging station, up to $1,250. To qualify, applicants must sign up for a time-of-use rate. For more information, see the GCEA EV Charging Station Rebate website.

Natural Gas and Propane Licenses

Any person or entity that distributes, supplies, imports, exports, carries, or blends natural gas or propane must obtain a license from the Colorado Department of Revenue.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 39-27-104)

Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Sales Requirements and Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) Standards

Colorado established ZEV standards, pursuant to Colorado’s authority under Section 177 of the Clean Air Act, Title 42 of the U.S. Code, section 7507. All Model Year 2022 and later passenger cars and light- and medium-duty vehicles must meet California motor vehicle emissions and compliance requirements specified in Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations. For more information, see the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment LEV Standards website.

(Reference 5 Code of Colorado Regulations 1001-24 and Executive Order B 2019 002, 2019)

Transportation Electrification Workgroup

The Transportation Electrification Workgroup (Workgroup) will develop, coordinate, and implement state programs and strategies to support transportation electrification in Colorado. The Workgroup will report to the governor on an annually on progress made towards the goals.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, along with the Workgroup, will revise the state Beneficiary Mitigation Plan for allocating funds from Colorado's portion of the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust. The revised plan will focus all remaining eligible funds on supporting transportation electrification.

(Reference Executive Order B 2019 002, 2019).

Electric Vehicle (EV) Loan Program – Gunnison County Electric Association (GCEA)

GCEA members may borrow an EV for one day without any cost or mileage restrictions. For more information, including how to apply, see the GCEA EV Test Drive Program website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Incentive – Holy Cross Energy (HCE)

HCE offers free or discounted EV charging stations for residential customers. For more information, including how to apply, see HCE’s Charge at Home website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Parking Regulations

Any vehicle that is not actively charging may not park in designated EV charging parking spaces. An EV is presumed to not be charging if it is parked at a charging station and is not connected to the charger for longer than 30 minutes. Some exclusions apply, including for EVs parked at lodging or airports, and between the hours of 11pm and 5am. The penalty for violation is $182. (Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-4-1213, and 42-4-1701)

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-1-102, 42-4-1213, and 42-4-1701)

Public Electric Utility Services Authorization

Public electric utilities may provide electricity to charge electric vehicles (EVs) as unregulated or regulated services and may recover the costs of distribution system and infrastructure investments to accommodate EV charging. The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) must evaluate the impact EV charging revenue has on utility retail rates, which cannot exceed 0.5% of the total annual revenue requirements of the utility.

Public electric utilities are required to file an application with the PUC for widespread transportation electrification programs every three years. Programs may include investments or incentives to facilitate the deployment of customer- or utility-owned EV charging stations and associated electrical equipment, support the electrification of public transit and other vehicle fleets, create rate designs or programs that encourage EV charging, and conduct customer education, outreach, and incentive programs that increase awareness of transportation electrification.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 41-1-103.3, 41-3-116, and 40-5-107)

Transportation Impacts Stakeholder Group

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will convene and engage with a stakeholder group to examine and address impacts of new transportation technologies and business models. The topics include funding transportation infrastructure needed to support the adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) and incentivizing the adoption of ZEVs for use in commercial applications. In 2019, CDOT and the Colorado Energy Office published a report on the progress and policy recommendations of the stakeholder group.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 43-1-125)

Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) Plazas Program

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) administers the Colorado Electric Vehicle (EV) DCFC Plazas Program. Priority locations are near downtown areas, high-density housing, commercial developments, transit hubs, transportation network company dense areas, and underserved communities. Eligible applicants may receive grants up to 80% of project costs at each proposed location. Awardees must provide five years of continuous use. For additional information, including requirements and funding availability, see the CEO EV DCFC Plazas Program website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate - San Isabel Electric Association (SIEA)

SIEA offers customers rebates for the purchase and installation of Level 2 and direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations. Rebates are available in the following amounts:

For more information, including how to apply, see the SIEA EV Education website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Rebate - San Isabel Electric Association (SIEA)

SIEA residential customers a $500 rebate for the purchase of qualified EVs. For more information, including how to apply, see the SIEA EV Education website.

Residential Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate – Black Hills Energy

Black Hills Energy offers residential customers a $500 rebate for the purchase and installation of a Level 2 EV charging station. Low-income residents are eligible for a rebate of up to $1,300. For more information, including application details, see the Residential Rebate website.

Non-Residential Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate – Black Hills Energy

Black Hills Energy offers rebates to non-residential customers for the purchase and installation of Level 2 and direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations. Rebates are available in the following amounts:

For more information, including application details, see the Black Hills Energy Commercial EV Charging Rebate website.

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 medium- and heavy-duty (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 Medium- and Heavy-Duty ZEVs: Action Plan Development Process website.

Climate Action Plan

The Air Quality Control Commission (Commission) must adopt rules and regulations to meet state-wide goals of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 26% by 2025, 50% by 2050, and 90% by 2050, compared to 2005 GHG emission levels. To develop rules and regulations, the Commission must identity and solicit input from communities that are disproportionally impacted by GHG pollution and environmental risk, such as minority, low-income, tribal, and indigenous populations. The Division of Administration of the Department of Public Health and Environment (Division) must report to the general assembly on a bi-annual basis regarding the progress towards the GHG reduction targets and make recommendations on future legislative actions to address climate change. On January 14, 2021, the Division released the GHG Pollution Reduction Roadmap with recommendations to reduce GHG pollution in the transportation sector by 25% by 2025, 40% by 2030, and nearly 100% by 2050 to meet state-wide GHG emission targets. Recommendations include securing new revenue to fund infrastructure and incentives for electric cars, trucks, and buses and that the Colorado Energy Office develop an Electric Vehicle Equity Study to identify frontline communities who are disproportionately affected by transportation pollution or experience barriers to equitably access electric transportation.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 25-7-102, 25-7-103, and 25-7-105)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations Funding Authorization

The Colorado Community Enterprise, a government-owned business, is authorized to implement grant, loan, or rebate programs for EV charging stations. Funding may be issued for the following:

• Public, workplace, transportation network company, and multi-unit dwelling EV charging station installations;
• EV charging station installations for communities, including disproportionately impacted communities;
• EV charging stations for medium- and heavy- duty electric vehicles (EVs) including, electrified refrigerated trailers;
• Networks and plazas of direct current fast charging (DCFC) infrastructure; and,
• Infrastructure needs to support the powering of hydrogen fuel cell motor vehicles.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 24-38.5-303)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Special License Plate

The Department of Revenue must issue a special license plate for EVs. The taxes and fees for the EV license plates is the same as the amount as the taxes and fees for regular motor vehicle license plates.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-3-259)

Clean Energy Career Program

The State Council and the Colorado Department of Natural Resources must create an industry driven energy sector career pathway for implementation before the 2022-2023 academic year. The energy sector includes occupations and activities relating to the development, installation, and maintenance of products or technologies in the areas of electric vehicles, electric vehicle supply equipment, hydrogen fuel cell technology, and renewable natural gas.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-46.3-104)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure Support

Colorado utilities joined the National Electric Highway Coalition (NEHC), committing to create a network of direct current fast charging (DCFC) stations connecting major highway systems from the Atlantic Coast to the Pacific of the United States. NEHC utility members agree to ensure efficient and effective fast charging deployment plans that enable long distance EV travel, avoiding duplication among coalition utilities, and complement existing corridor DCFC sites. For more information, including a list of participating utilities and states, see the NEHC website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Rebate - Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy offers income-qualified residential customers a $3,000 rebate for the purchase or lease of a pre-owned EV, and a $5,500 rebate for the purchase or lease of a new EV. Income-qualified residents are households with income levels equal to or below 60% of the Colorado’s median income that are currently enrolled in one of Colorado’s financial assistance programs such as the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP). Eligible EVs must be purchased or leased from a Colorado dealership. For more information, see the Xcel Energy EV Rebate website.

Colorado's National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Planning

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) NEVI Formula Program requires the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to submit an annual EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan (Plan) to the DOT and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Office of Energy and Transportation (Joint Office) beginning August 1, 2022, describing how the state intends to distribute NEVI funds. The submitted plan must be established according to NEVI guidance.

For more information about Colorado’s NEVI planning process, see the CDOT NEVI website. To review Colorado’s NEVI plan, see the Joint Office State Plans for EV Charging website.

Industrial and Manufacturing Operations Emissions Reduction Grant

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) will administer the Industrial and Manufacturing Operations Clean Air Grant Program (Program), which funds projects that reduce emissions from industrial and manufacturing operations, including transportation electrification and hydrogen projects. Eligible applicants include private entities, local and tribal governments, and public-private partnerships. Projects located in underserved communities or areas in nonattainment with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards may receive priority consideration. Additional terms and conditions apply.

(Reference Colorado Senate Bill 193, 2022)

Diesel Emissions Reduction Grant

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) administers the Colorado Clean Diesel Program (CCDP), which provides funding to private and public entities to replace diesel vehicles and equipment with all-electric or hybrid-electric equivalents. Eligible projects include terminal tractors, construction equipment, bucket trucks, transportation refrigeration units, airport ground support equipment, lawn mowers, farm tractors, bucket trucks, snow groomers, idle-reduction technologies, and associated charging infrastructure. A minimum cost share is required and varies by project technology. CCDP is funded by the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act. For more information, see the CCDP website.

Electric School Bus Grant

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will administer the Electrifying School Buses Grant Program (Program), which provides funds to schools for the purchase of electric school buses and associated charging infrastructure. Eligible projects include the purchase and maintenance of electric school buses; the conversion of fossil-fuel powered school buses to electric buses; the purchase and installation of charging infrastructure; and electrical upgrades to support associated charging infrastructure. Eligible applicants include public school districts, charter schools, schools operated by tribal governments, and nonprofit partners acting on behalf of a school district or charter school. Schools located in underserved communities or areas in nonattainment with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards may receive priority consideration. Additional terms and conditions apply.

(Reference Colorado Senate Bill 193, 2022)

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate – Holy Cross Energy (HCE)

HCE offers commercial customers a $600 rebate for the purchase and installation of an EV charging station for multifamily housing, workplace, or fleet charging. Customers may receive rebates for up to three Level 2 EV chargers. For more information, including how to apply, see the HCE Charge at Work website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Rebate and Time-Of-Use (TOU) Rate – Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy offers residential customers a rebate of up to $500 for the purchase and installation of a qualified Level 2 EV charging station. Income-qualified residents may receive up to $1,300. Income-qualified residents are households with income levels below 60% of Colorado’s median income, 200% of the relevant federal poverty level, or 80% of the area median income. To be eligible, customers must also enroll in a TOU rate. For more information, see the Xcel Energy EV Charger and Wiring Rebate website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Program – Xcel Energy

The Xcel Energy EV Accelerate at Home program provides residential customers with a Level 2 EV charging station for a monthly fee. The fee includes EV charging station installation and maintenance by an Xcel Energy electrician. For more information, see the Xcel Energy Driving Toward an Electric Future website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Building Standards

The Colorado Energy Code Board (Board) must develop a model EV-ready building code for counties, municipalities, and state agencies by June 1, 2023. Members of the Board are appointed by the Director of the Colorado Energy Office. The Board must include the following elements in the model building code:

• EV-ready and EV-capable requirements for commercial and residential buildings;
• EV-ready, EV-capable, and EV charging station installation requirements for 20% or more parking spaces at multifamily and commercial buildings;
• Pre-wiring requirements for single-family residential buildings, multifamily, and commercial buildings

Building codes must consider the cost-effectiveness of pre-wiring for EV charging stations. At a minimum, EV-ready parking spaces must have electrical panel capacity, raceway wiring, a receptacle, and a circuit overprotection devise to support an EV charging station with a minimum capacity of 208V.

(Reference Reference House Bill 1362, 2022)

Public Transit Electrification Incentive Authorization

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is authorized to issue grants, loans, and rebates through the Clean Transit Enterprise (Enterprise), a government-owned business, to support public transit electrification planning, facility upgrades, fleet vehicle replacement, and construction of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The Enterprise may impose a fee to raise funds for financing programs. For more information, see the CDOT Enterprise website.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 42-4-1203)

Fleet Alternative Fuel Vehicle Incentive Authorization

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is authorized to issue grants, loans, and rebates through the Clean Fleet Enterprise (Enterprise), a government-owned business, to business and government entities for the replacement of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty fleet vehicles with clean vehicles. Eligible projects include electric, hydrogen, and renewable natural gas vehicles as well as idle reduction technology. The Enterprise may impose fees to raise funds for financing programs. For more information, see the CDPHE Enterprise website.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 25-7.5-103)

Non-Residential Electric Vehicle (EV) Time-Of-Use (TOU) Rate – Black Hills Energy

Black Hills Energy offers TOU rates to commercial customers that operate EV charging stations. For more information, see the Black Hills Energy Ready EV website.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Adoption Support

Beginning July 1, 2021, the Colorado Energy Office and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDHPE) must publish an annual report detailing the progress made toward meeting the EV adoption goals established in the Colorado EV Plan 2020 and the transportation greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals set in the Colorado Greenhouse Gas Pollution Reduction Roadmap. For more information, including the annual report, see the CDPHE Clean Fleet Enterprise website.

(Reference Colorado Revised Statutes 24-38.5-110)

Fleet Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) and Technology Grants

The Clean Fleet Vehicle and Technology Grant Program, administered by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) through the Clean Fleet Enterprise, offers grants to business and government fleets for the purchase of new AFVs or the conversion of existing fleet vehicles to operate on alternative fuels. Eligible projects include light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles, and eligible alternative fuels include electricity, hydrogen, and compressed natural gas. Incentive amounts vary based on vehicle technology and gross vehicle weight rating. For more information, including additional eligibility criteria, see the CDPHE Clean Fleet Enterprise website and the Clean Fleet Vehicle Technology Grant Program guide.