THE LATEST IN STATE ENERGY NEWS

RI Becomes First State to Complete Phase 1 Under NEVI Program

Rhode Island was recently acknowledged for its achievement as the first state in the nation to complete Phase 1 of the alternative fuel corridor under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. This momentous occasion was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Route 117 Park & Ride in Warwick.

The Alternative Fuel Corridor on Interstate 95 consists of eight Direct Current Fast Chargers (DCFCs) and six Dual-Port Level 2 charging stations. The implementation of these chargers makes the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) easier while providing Rhode Islanders with efficient and convenient charging options.

While this is a significant accomplishment, more work is underway. Using the feedback provided in the NEVI Phase 2 Survey, Phase 2 will continue to address the needs of public and private entities. Phase 2 of the NEVI Program is anticipated to begin in the Fall of 2024.

Read more about this major milestone or check out the video here. Interested in learning more about NEVI? Please visit https://energy.ri.gov/rinevi.

Read the Press Release

Watch the Video

OER Launches PowerUpRI Program

Opening on August 1, 2024, PowerUpRI aims to incentivize Rhode Island residents and landlords to install electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure within residential properties across the Ocean State. Through tailored rebates, the program strives to increase the adoption of clean transportation, reduce transportation emissions, and make EV charging more convenient and accessible for Rhode Islanders.

The expansion of residential EV charging infrastructure across Rhode Island is a critical component in combating climate change and meeting the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions. PowerUpRI provides financial incentives for eligible EV chargers and any necessary electrical upgrades. Additionally, PowerUpRI offers extra incentives for income-qualified applicants.

Read the Press Release

Visit the PowerUpRI website

U.S. EPA $450 Million Regional Award to Accelerate Adoption of Heat Pump Installations, Lower Costs, Cut Emissions

Rhode Island is one of a five state-coalition to receive $450 million in federal Climate Pollution Reduction Grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Approximately $35 million to $40 million will be allocated to the Ocean State.

Funds from these grants will be utilized to launch the New England Heat Pump Accelerator. This regional program seeks to make heat pumps more accessible with the goal of having heat pumps make up at least 65 percent of residential heating, cooling, and water heating sales by 2030.

To read more about this monumental funding opportunity, click here.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Erika Niedowski Memorial Electric Bike Rebate Program has reopened and is now accepting new applications

The Office of Energy Resources reopened the Erika Niedowski Memorial Electric Bike Rebate Program for applications on July 8th, 2024. E-bike purchases made prior to July 8th, 2024, will be eligible for retroactive rebates, provided they meet all existing program requirements.

Additionally, OER has modified the requirements for the Erika Niedowski Memorial Electric Bike Rebate Program. These modifications took effect on July 8th, 2024. E-bike purchases made on or after this date must comply with all new and existing requirements to be eligible for the rebate program. Click here to view program modifications.

Apply Today

OER Launches Energy Storage Dashboard

Curious about energy storage? Check out OER's new energy storage dashboard! Explore the number of energy storage systems across the state, learn about their fuel sources, and see which cities and towns are reaping the benefits.

There are many benefits to energy storage. Due to their ability to hold energy, they can effectively and efficiently support the demand of the electrical grid, and increase the ability to integrate renewable energy sources. This makes our grid more resilient and allows it to operate more economically.

Have questions about energy storage? Get answers here.

View the Dashboard

Climate Justice Newsletter

Subscribe today to OER's brand-new Climate Justice newsletter! Gain valuable knowledge about programs, resources, employment and training opportunities, and grant funding.

The Climate Justice Newsletter aims to educate Rhode Islanders living in Disadvantaged Communities (DACs) or Environmental Justice areas on how they can take action in creating a sustainable and just future.