A recent article from Electrek.com mentions attempts by New York legislators to introduce measures to help the state meet its 2030 goal of getting 2 million electric cars on their roads (they had close to 37,000 in 2018) and reducing carbon emissions by 40%. The package includes exemptions for state tax (for the first $35,000) and the first year of registration fees. This follows the $2000 rebate that the state already offers. These measures are intended to reduce the cost to acquire an electric vehicle.

What about us?

Hawaii recognizes the role of electrification in addressing our renewable energy goals. It offered a $4500 rebate for EV purchases and $500 for EV chargers in March 2011 through November 2012, as part of an ‘EV Ready Program‘. Today, Hawaii residents may avail of the Federal Tax of up to $7500 for some models, reduced electric rates based on time-of-use (for Hawaii Electric customers), HOV Lane (Oahu) and Parking Fee exemptions. These benefits have helped our state to be second to California in the number of EVs per capita.

More must be done for Hawaii to meet its 2045 100% renewable energy goal. In addition to transforming our energy production, we must shift to more sustainable, fossil fuel-free transportation. With over 1 million gas and diesel vehicles (cars, freight trucks, buses) and approximately 9000 electric cars on our roads, we have a long way to go. With the right incentives for sustainable transportation, a robust charging infrastructure, and increased public awareness of the costs of our oil habit and personal actions that can be taken to reduce pollution, we can not only meet our goal but also be an example for others.

To view the latest incentives for EVs, visit PlugInAmerica’s State and Federal EV Incentive Tracker.