Sustainable Transportation

Leading by Example

In January 2019, Executive Order 2019-01 was signed, which stated that Pennsylvania shall strive to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions 26 percent by 2025 from 2005 levels, and 80 percent by 2050 from 2005 levels, among other initiatives and goals. Additionally, the Executive Order set energy performance goals for state agencies and created a GreenGov Council to help agencies reach those goals. One of these goals, specific to the transportation sector, is to replace 25 percent of the state passenger car fleet with battery electric and plug-in electric hybrid cars by 2025 and evaluate opportunities for the reduction of vehicle miles traveled and incorporation of new technology where appropriate.

Planning for the Future

Electric Vehicle Roadmap: The Pennsylvania Electric Vehicle (EV) Roadmap serves as a tool for expanding the EV knowledge base, documenting baseline EV data, and identifying EV policies, plans, and programs for Pennsylvania. The Roadmap addresses the impacts, policy options, and possible market interventions regarding EV adoption and infrastructure construction throughout the state. Strategies outlined in the Roadmap assist DEP and the Drive Electric Pennsylvania Coalition in planning implementation measures to prepare Pennsylvania for a growing EV market. In 2021 DEP released the EV Roadmap Update booklet, which includes updated electric vehicle data and a summary of Pennsylvania electric vehicle incentive programs.

Drive Electric PA (DEPA) Coalition: Efforts to promote electric vehicle adoption are increasing nationally, as more states and cities see the value of reduced greenhouse gas emissions and the potential for new economic opportunities. DEP began collaborating with stakeholders statewide in a planning process to increase the acceptance and adoption of electric vehicles by state government agencies, local governments, businesses, industry, and the general public in Pennsylvania. 

Funding a Sustainable Future

Driving PA Forward: “Clean air is the cornerstone of a clean, healthy environment,” said Governor Tom Wolf as he announced the roll out of the programs. “When Volkswagen cheated on its emissions equipment, it undermined that cornerstone. Through our Driving PA Forward initiative, we will begin to remedy that by driving the transition towards advanced zero-emission and low-emission vehicles and accelerating the build-out of infrastructure necessary to support the next generation of transportation options.” Over $118 million from the Volkswagen mitigation trust has been set aside for certain transportation related projects that reduce NOx emissions from diesel engines. 

Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program (AFIG): The AFIG Program helps to create new markets for alternative fuels in Pennsylvania which enhances energy security. An investment is being made not only in alternative fuels, but the deployment of alternative fuel vehicles, fleets, and technologies. Alternative Fuel Incentive Grant projects promote and build markets for advanced, renewable and alternative energy transportation technologies. The intent is to provide a stimulus for opportunities that better manage Pennsylvania's fuel resources in a way that also improves the environment, supports economic development and enhances the quality of life. To learn more and apply, visit the AFIG webpage.

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Rebates for Consumers: The AFV Rebate Program provides rebates to consumers for the purchase or lease of plug-in hybrid, plug-in electric, natural gas, and propane vehicles. The program offers rebates of up to $2,000 for battery electric vehicles, $1,500 for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and $500 for compressed natural gas or propane-fueled vehicles and electric motorcycles. One-time preowned AFV with 75,000 miles or less and demonstration model vehicles with an odometer reading of greater than 500 miles and less than 10,000 miles are now eligible for the same rebates as new vehicles. An additional rebate of $1,000 is available on all vehicles for applicants meeting low-income requirements. Please see the program guidelines for details.