Qualified residents in California can now receive up to $2,000 in electric bike purchase subsidies under the state government’s latest Green Incentive Program.
Starting from 6 p.m. on December 18th, the California Air Resources Board’s Electric Bike Incentive Program will be open for applications to residents who are 18 years and older and meet specific low-income requirements. Those whose household income is below 300% of the federal poverty level are eligible to receive a maximum $2,000 voucher.
To qualify, the annual income for a single individual must be below $45,180, for a two-person household must be below $61,320, for a three-person household must not exceed $77,460, and for a four-person household must not exceed $93,600. Qualified individuals will receive a voucher that can be redeemed at authorized electric bike retailers. This money can be used to purchase electric bikes and any related accessories, including helmets, bike locks, racks, baskets, mirrors, lights, and other items.
Furthermore, a portion of the incentive amount will be reserved specifically for priority applicants from certain low-income or disadvantaged groups. Applicants are also required to participate in a survey assessment and complete electric bike safety training.
The base incentive amount is $1,750. For residents of low-income and disadvantaged communities (defined by AB1550 as low-income communities), an additional $250 subsidy is available. According to the legislation, a “low-income community” refers to an area where the median household income is 80% below the median income in California or falls below the low-income threshold designated by the Department of Housing and Community Development.
This program is managed by the non-profit organization Pedal Ahead based in San Diego, which promotes the use of electric bikes to transform modes of transportation. In recent years, the popularity of electric bikes has been on the rise. The organization states that in addition to being more cost-effective than cars, electric bikes promote physical activity, thereby improving health.