Electric vehicles (EVs) are critical to achieving California’s climate goals, and they may also lower electric rates for customers. However, affordable EV ownership remains a challenge for drivers in lower-income communities. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is working to change that.

PG&E’s Pre-Owned EV Rebate Program has helped over 13,000 income-qualified customers purchase used EVs. The program provides up to $4,000 in rebates, with over $29 million already distributed. Another $50 million in funding is available for income-qualified customers. PG&E also offers rebates for at-home charging equipment and installation, easing the burden of upfront costs.

Equity and Emissions Drive Change for Affordable EV Ownership

PG&E aims to support 3 million EVs by 2030. EV adoption helps reduce carbon emissions and can improve air quality. According to PG&E, an additional million EVs on the grid could lower residential electric rates by 2-3% by spreading fixed grid costs across more customers.

“We have made great progress to improve access to EVs and charging infrastructure for all of our customers. Including those who may have thought EV ownership was out of reach because of the costs,” said Lydia Krefta, Senior Director, Electrification and Decarbonization for PG&E. “EVs are critical to California meeting its climate goals, and they also provide a road to lower electric prices.”  

EV Rate Plans That Cut Charging Costs

Time-of-Use rate plans, such as EV2-A, offer lower energy rates during off-peak hours. For income-qualified customers on CARE and Family Electric Rate Assistance programs, charging an EV during off-peak times can cost the equivalent of $1.88 per gallon. PG&E’s EV Rate Comparison tool helps drivers find the most cost-effective plan.

Residential Charging and Management Tools Support Affordable EV Ownership

The Residential Charging Solutions pilot provides rebates covering up to 100% of Level 2 charger equipment costs for eligible customers. These chargers use existing 240-volt outlets, reducing the need for expensive upgrades.

The EV Charge Manager tool helps customers in Santa Clara, Contra Costa, and Alameda counties track their charging behavior and save money by shifting charging to off-peak times. Participants receive a $75 gift card after three months of consistent use.

New Pilots to Power the EV Transition

To support affordable EV ownership, PG&E plans to launch two new pilot programs funded through California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard Program:

• Affordable public charging pilot: Offers charging credits via prepaid debit cards to income-qualified customers using public stations.
• Panel and flexible electrification support pilot: Provides financial assistance for electrical panel upgrades and related equipment to enable home charging for low-income households.

PG&E’s suite of resources, from rebates and equipment incentives to rate plans and planning tools, aims to break down barriers to affordable EV ownership, it said.

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