Program Overview
Starting in late 2012, Clean Air Fleets began to roll out its new Charge Ahead Colorado program to provide funding for electric vehicles (EV) and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). EV and EVSE implementation can help public and private fleets achieve clean, cost effective, and efficient operations. Electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are fueled by electricity that comes directly from the power grid. All electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions and can provide fleets with great fuel savings. At this time, the RAQC has funding for both EV and EVSE implementation with priority directed to those organizations that are excluded from the Colorado state tax credit. Please click here for a list of Charge Ahead Colorado awardees.
Funding Availability
At this time, the RAQC has funding to pay 80% of the incremental cost differential between a gasoline vehicle and the EV up to $8,260. In addition, the RAQC has funding to pay 80% of the cost of EVSE up to maximums determined by charger level and type.
Eligibility
Interested fleets must operate in the seven county Denver Metro Area (Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas or Jefferson Counties). Fleets operating outside of the Denver Metro Area may be eligible for electric vehcile infrastructure funding through the Colorado Energy Office. Please see the application for more information on fleet eligibility or contact the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC).
For a more detailed description of eligible projects, please see the application.
Application
For more information on funding amounts, criteria, eligibility and how to apply, please click here.
Applications will be due three times a year and will be reviewed by an Electric Vehicle Implementation Working Group (EVIWG).
Benefits
The Charge Ahead Colorado program aims to reduce the negative impacts of mobile sources in the region. Electric Vehicle implementation provides many benefits to the Denver Metro Area. Find several of these benefits below:
– Reduced harmful air pollutants;
– Reduced greenhouse gas emissions;
– Transformation of the region’s transportation system by incentivizing the development of geographically dispersed EVSE charging infrastructure;
– Increased energy security through reduced petroleum usage and implementation of clean, reliable alternative transportation;
– Technological innovation;
– Advanced fleet sustainability; and
– Promotion of greening government initiatives.
For a complete listing of the many benefits associated with reduced emissions and improved air quality, please see the Benefits tab.