Electric Vehicles

Transportation is the largest polluting sector in Maine. In Portland, it accounts for 30% of greenhouse gas emissions, and in South Portland, it accounts for 32% of greenhouse gas emissions. Vehicle electrification is one of the primary actions we can take to decarbonize and reduce emissions from our transportation sector–but why?

Driving an electric vehicle (EV) means using electric power stored in batteries to propel the car, instead of crude oils such as gasoline and diesel. As an EV drives around it emits no tailpipe emissions, whereas a gasoline or diesel-powered vehicle uses an internal combustion engine, which releases a number of toxic gases including carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. These gases contribute to climate change with their heat-trapping properties and directly pollute the air we breathe, causing respiratory illness, and our beloved Maine waterways, impacting our water sources and harming marine species.

Considering buying an electric vehicle?

Efficiency Maine, the state’s energy efficiency trust, offers rebates for eligible new and used EVs to Maine residents, businesses, non-profits, and more. Efficiency Maine has tons of resources about EVs eligible for , chargers,

Federal tax credits for eligible EVs, used EVs, and home EV chargers – check it out today at EnergySavingsHub.gov. As of January 1st these tax credits can be transferred to the dealer to reduce your upfront purchase price right at the dealership without having to wait until after you file your taxes.

Looking for a charger in Maine?

The state is rapidly building out its network of EV chargers with heavy emphasis on popular driving corridors. New chargers are coming online every month. Find all the EV chargers available to you on Plugshare.