New York Homeowners Can Save Big on EV Charger Installations with Federal Tax Credits and Smart Charging Programs

As electric vehicle adoption accelerates across New York State, homeowners are discovering that installing a home EV charger is more affordable than ever thanks to federal incentives and utility programs. While New York doesn’t currently offer state-specific rebates for residential EV charger installations, homeowners can still take advantage of substantial federal tax credits and innovative utility programs that make home charging both cost-effective and convenient.

Federal Tax Credits Lead the Way for Home EV Charger Savings

The most significant incentive available to New York homeowners is the 30% federal tax credit for EV charger installation. This federal Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit covers 30% of installation costs up to $1,000 and remains available for installations completed through June 30, 2026. This is a tax credit, not a rebate—it reduces your federal tax bill dollar-for-dollar, but you need enough tax liability to take advantage of it.

For homeowners planning an EV charger installation, this federal incentive can significantly reduce the upfront costs. When searching for an electric car charger for home near me, it’s essential to work with a licensed electrician who understands both the technical requirements and available incentives to maximize your savings.

Smart Charging Programs Reduce Operating Costs

While installation rebates may be limited, New York utilities offer innovative programs that reduce the ongoing costs of EV charging. Con Edison’s SmartCharge New York program allows EV owners to earn cash by charging in the Con Edison service area. Compatible EVs include select Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, Tesla, Toyota, Volvo, Volkswagen models, and more.

Homeowners can also join time-of-use programs to save on EV charging electricity costs, making home charging even more economical compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.

Commercial and Public Charging Incentives Support Infrastructure Growth

While residential incentives are primarily federal, New York offers robust support for commercial and public charging installations. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) Charge Ready NY 2.0 program offers rebates worth up to $4,000 per port to organizations that install Level 2 EV charging stations at workplaces, multi-unit dwellings, or public parking facilities.

Businesses installing qualifying EV chargers may be eligible for a state tax credit of up to $5,000 per charging station, or 50% of the cost of the property, whichever is less. Businesses may also qualify for the 30C commercial charging tax credit, which offers 30% of installation costs, up to $100,000 per charging port, through June 30, 2026.

Home Electrification Incentives Complement EV Charging

In June 2024, New York became the first state to offer home energy rebates funded through the Inflation Reduction Act, making $159.3 million for home efficiency rebates and $158.4 million for home electrification available. These rebates support appliance rebates, insulation and air sealing, heat pumps for space and water heating, and the electrical upgrades necessary to enable those retrofits.

Combining EV ownership with other electrification projects, such as upgrading your home with solar panels, battery storage, or updating your HVAC system to a heat pump, will help you save even more while reducing your environmental impact.

Electrical Panel Upgrades May Be Necessary

Many homeowners discover that installing an EV charger requires electrical upgrades. Most EV chargers require a 240-volt circuit, and older homes often need electrical panel upgrades to handle the additional load safely. These homes typically have 100-amp electrical panels that struggle with modern electrical demands, let alone adding a 40-amp EV charger.

The good news is that the 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit provides a federal tax credit for electrical panel upgrades needed to complete electrification projects like heat pumps and heat pump water heaters (up to 30% of project costs, capped at $600).

Legal Protections for Homeowners

New York law protects homeowners’ rights to install EV chargers. Homeowner associations may not prohibit or restrict the installation or use of an EV charger in a homeowner’s designated parking space. Similarly, condominium associations may not prohibit or restrict the installation or use of EV chargers in a homeowner’s designated parking space.

Growing EV Adoption and Infrastructure

Nearly 79,000 new electric vehicles (EVs) hit the road in New York State in 2023, supported by a growing network of EV charging stations and incentives for installing home chargers. According to the Alternative Fuels Data Center, New York has approximately 5,000 public charging stations statewide as of September 2025, including 17,933 public charging ports. Of those publicly available chargers, 15,404 are Level 2 stations and 2,529 are DC fast chargers.

For New York homeowners considering an EV charger installation, 2024 presents an excellent opportunity to take advantage of federal tax credits while they remain available. Now is an ideal time to consider an EV purchase in New York. There are more models than ever to choose from, and utilities are making charging at home a no-brainer with low rates and special time-of-use offers.

When planning your installation, be sure to work with a licensed electrician who can assess your home’s electrical capacity, recommend the appropriate charger for your needs, and ensure all work meets local codes and safety standards. With the right planning and professional installation, you can maximize both your federal tax savings and long-term charging convenience.