When people ask about installing commercial EV chargers, the first question is almost always about cost. For those who’ve done some research, the next question is usually about government incentives—and that’s where the real opportunity lies. While the news has focused on federal funding uncertainties, there are numerous other opportunities available. However, many people are unaware that they do not need to limit funding applications to a single source. The art of “stacking,” or receiving multiple incentives, can dramatically reduce their upfront investment. The funding landscape isn’t disappearing but rather evolving. We can help explain the playbook to help you reap maximum savings.
There are four different funding sources that offer EV charging incentives, with each offering unique opportunities that can often be combined for greater cost reduction. It might start with federal funding but also includes state grants or utility rebates that can cover everything up to the meter box.
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The Four Pillars of EV Charging Station Incentives
Understanding the incentive ecosystem requires recognizing four distinct funding buckets, each with unique characteristics and opportunities:
- Federal Programs remain available but increasingly selective. The federal landscape remains in flux, with the NEVI program undergoing restructuring. After a temporary pause earlier this year, federal court action restored funding for 14 states, and applications are steadily reopening within individual states that have decided to pursue the issue. Companies should note that these programs typically involve intense competition and have complex requirements. That’s not to say that applications cannot be navigated, just that there can be intense competition for funding and different installation plans might not meet the federal guidelines.
- State-Level Initiatives are experiencing unprecedented growth. California’s CalEVIP program continues expanding, with the latest Fast Charge California Project offering $55 million in incentives launched in August 2025, while Washington announced over $85 million in grants in 2024 with an additional $19.4 million planned for future rounds through 2027. Colorado offers a $5,000 state tax credit for new EVs that can stack with federal incentives for potential savings of up to $12,500, while Oregon’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Program provides up to $7,500 in combined rebates for qualifying vehicles, with enhanced support for low- and moderate-income residents. These programs increasingly focus on public charging infrastructure while expanding support for workplace and multifamily residential projects. The emphasis on Level 2 chargers reflects growing recognition that this type of charger can better serve vehicles that will sit longer or have a longer dwell time.
- Local and Regional Programs provide targeted opportunities often overlooked by larger competitors. Cities like New York have developed comprehensive Department of Transportation programs operating independently from state initiatives, including plans for 1,000 curbside charge points by 2025, expanding to 10,000 by 2030, plus up to 13 fast-charging hubs at municipal parking facilities featuring roughly 50 fast-charging plugs. These programs frequently target underserved markets and offer more personalized application processes.
- Utility Programs represent perhaps the most diverse and accessible funding category. Utilities operate across regional territories, offering everything from comprehensive “make-ready” incentives that cover installation costs up to the meter box, to straightforward rebates such as up to $1,500 for customer-side infrastructure upgrades. These programs often target workplace and residential charging, recognizing the strategic importance of locations where people park for extended periods.
The EV Charger Funding Game-Changer: Incentive Stacking
Considering the different programs available, here is where strategy becomes crucial. “Stacking” allows you to combine incentives from different levels—federal with state, state with utility, utility with local programs, etc. The key restriction is typically that you cannot stack two programs from the same level, such as two federal programs or two state initiatives.
This approach can transform project economics dramatically. Consider a workplace charging installation that combines a state grant covering 50% of equipment costs with a utility make-ready program handling all electrical infrastructure, plus a local rebate for installation. Suddenly, what seemed like a six-figure investment becomes achievable with minimal out-of-pocket expense.
The eligibility net is broader than many realize. Commercial businesses, nonprofits, tribal organizations, municipalities, and schools all qualify for various programs. The challenge isn’t finding eligible programs for your organization or company; it’s identifying which combination offers the best value for your specific situation.
Strategic Timing and Selection for EV Charger Funding
Not all incentives are created equal in terms of competition and accessibility. Federal NEVI funds involve intense competition with complex requirements that favor experienced developers. However, many utility programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis with straightforward requirements. Understanding this landscape allows strategic applicants to focus energy on programs where success is most likely.
New incentive programs emerge regularly—more frequently than quarterly, according to industry insiders. This dynamic environment rewards those who stay current with evolving opportunities rather than relying on outdated information.
Navigating EV Charger Incentives with Expert Guidance
The incentive landscape’s complexity demands specialized knowledge that goes beyond casual research. Successful navigation requires understanding which websites contain current information, maintaining relationships with program administrators, and receiving regular updates as opportunities emerge and evolve.
This expertise becomes particularly valuable when guiding clients toward less competitive programs that offer better approval odds. Rather than directing small businesses toward high-competition federal programs, experienced advisors can identify utility or local incentives that provide substantial benefits with greater probability of success.
Shifting the funding focus from federal to state and utility levels represents an evolution toward more accessible, targeted programs that better serve diverse needs. Organizations that understand incentive stacking and maintain current knowledge of this evolving landscape will find that EV charging infrastructure investment remains not just viable, but strategically advantageous.
The question isn’t whether EV charging incentives will continue, but whether your firm is in a position to take full advantage of them. The funding is there. The opportunities are expanding. And the savings potential is significant for those who know how to navigate the system effectively.
Ready to explore how incentive stacking could transform your EV charging project economics? The landscape is complex, but the rewards for strategic navigation are substantial. BTC POWER can help you find current, targeted funding for your next EV installation project. Schedule a meeting to start your EV charger funding journey.
About the Author: Patty de Llano
