Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., recently launched a new program featuring publicly available electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, rebates for both residential and multifamily charger installations, and incentives for EV charging during off-peak hours. EV Driven, a five-year commission-approved pilot program, will benefit the state's environment by reducing auto emissions.
As part of the program, Potomac Edison will install 59 charging stations, including both Level 2 and dc fast charging stations, which will be available for public use throughout its Maryland service area. Charging station installations are expected to begin in the coming weeks.
The program also provides a US$300 rebate for qualified Level 2 EV charging stations for residential customers and a 50% rebate for the cost of qualified Level 2 and dc fast charging stations at multifamily properties, up to US$5000. In addition, residential customers can sign up to earn gift card incentives for using their qualifying EV charging station during off-peak times.
The pilot program was approved by the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) in January 2019 and includes additional EV charging station installations from other Maryland utilities to support a statewide effort toward reaching 300,000 zero-emission vehicles on the road by 2025. The pilot is intended to help Maryland utilities evaluate the benefits of EV charging deployment while remaining cost-effective for customers.
"The EV Driven program will help make EV charging in Maryland more accessible, convenient, and affordable," said James Sears, president of Maryland Operations for FirstEnergy. "We're excited to support Maryland's efforts toward EV adoption and to expand the charging station network as we continue providing safe, reliable, and affordable service to our customers."
EVs offer a clean, efficient alternative to gasoline-powered vehicles, averaging as low as one-third the cost-per-mile of gasoline. Depending on battery capacity, EV driving ranges can vary from about 80 miles up to 280 miles. The installation of public charging stations through the pilot program will help reduce range anxiety for EV owners, as well as provide key data to help determine future implementation efforts throughout Maryland and other areas served by FirstEnergy's utilities.
Customers can learn more about EV Driven rebates and incentives here.
