On Aug. 18, 2017, Oregon Governor Kate Brown signed HB 2017 which, among many other transportation investments, establishes a program to provide rebates to Oregonians who purchase certain types of electric vehicles (including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) and other qualifying zero-emissions vehicles. This program was designed by the Oregon Legislature to encourage higher adoption of ZEVs, reducing air pollution and advancing progress toward the state's greenhouse gas reduction goals.
In May 2018, the Zero-Emission and Electric Vehicle Rebate rules were adopted by the Environmental Quality Commission, DEQ's policy and rulemaking board. This established the program's requirements.
In December 2018, DEQ began issuing rebates. Participation in the program has steadily grown since its inception, with over 29,000 rebates issued as of March 7, 2024. Rebate availability is dependent on program funding at the time of vehicle purchase or lease. Visit the Available Rebate Funding page before your purchase or lease to confirm rebate availability.
DEQ receives 45% of the state's Vehicle Privilege Tax or at least $12 million per year for the program. It does not have a sunset date.