Braintree Drives Electric Program Promotes Electric Vehicle Use

From BDE: Since last summer, the Braintree Drives Electric (BDE) program has promoted electric vehicle adoption. BDE is sponsored by Braintree Electric Light Department (BELD) and has found great support from Mayor Joe Sullivan. Through semi-regular workshops, pre-negotiated leasing deals with local dealers, the installation of public charging stations, and leasing EVs for the municipal fleet, the town has become a leader in EV drivership in the state. For residents, as well, there are tremendous individual benefits.

There is a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, as well as a state rebate of up to $2,500, that applies to both leases and purchases of EVs. For Braintree residents only, BELD is offering an $8 per month incentive (or the equivalent of about 175 free miles) in electricity usage for charging vehicles at off-peak hours, and a $250 rebate for purchasing a level-2 charger. Furthermore, with electricity costs far less than gasoline costs, it is significantly cheaper to fuel EVs than regular gasoline-powered cars. These benefits can make owning and operating an EV as cheap as, if not cheaper than, owning and operating gasoline-powered vehicles.

Of course, on top of the financial benefits, EV ownership also has an enormously positive environmental impact. Currently, a little more than half of Braintree’s carbon emissions are from transportation-related activities, and electric motors are emission-free. With an estimated 78% of the town commuting a relatively short distance daily, thousands of residents commuting alone, and most households having more than one vehicle, a majority of town residents could see immense benefits by switching at least one household vehicle to electric.

On March 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Braintree Drives Electric will host a workshop at Braintree Town Hall, where participants can learn more about electric vehicles. There will be a presentation, light refreshments, free test drives, and the opportunity to chat with people ranging from current EV owners to those just beginning to learn about the numerous financial and environmental benefits of driving electric. The event is free to attend, and everyone is welcome.

For more information about the event and Braintree Drives Electric, go to www.braintreedriveselectric.com, or call 781.303.4994.

Photo courtesy of BDE