RENEW Wisconsin to Unveil Electric Vehicle Grant Program

RENEW Wisconsin, a Madison-based renewable energy advocacy organization, has announced the start of a new grant program titled EVs for Good. The program will foster the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) among mission-based nonprofits throughout Wisconsin. EVs for Good will reduce the upfront costs of purchasing an electric vehicle while reducing maintenance costs and transportation emissions.

“Transportation accounts for nearly 25% of Wisconsin’s emissions sources,” stated Sam Dunaiski, program director for RENEW Wisconsin. “Transitioning to electric vehicles, even with our current electric generation sources, will result in cleaner air for all Wisconsinites.”

The program is possible thanks to a generous donation from Carol and Andy Phelps. The Phelps’ installed a solar array on their home in 2019 and recently purchased an electric Chevy Bolt to further reduce their carbon emissions.

“We’re hoping to get more EVs on the road and we think that will have a ripple effect once people realize what good cars they are,” said Carol Phelps. “Overall, we think this is a really important part of decarbonizing the world.”

EVs for Good will offer grants for 20% of the cost of a new or used electric vehicle, with a maximum grant of $5,000. Larger grants, capped at $10,000, are available for organizations seeking to purchase an electric van or other vehicle capable of transporting eight or more passengers. In addition, $500 grants will be available for organizations choosing to install Level 2 (or higher) EV charging equipment.

“Somehow people think electric cars are for rich people,” said Andy Phelps. “Ordinary people can now get these cars at reasonable prices. EVs really are for everybody.”

Organizations that receive a grant must agree to host an outreach event for the community. Outreach can be in the form of a vehicle demonstration, a “ride ‘n drive,” or an open house for the EV-charging equipment.

RENEW Wisconsin will also launch its eighth round of the popular Solar for Good program, which provides grants and materials for nonprofits installing solar energy systems. Nearly 100 nonprofit organizations across Wisconsin have received awards through the program, adding approximately 3,000 kilowatts of clean, renewable energy to the state’s electric mix.

“There’s a huge opportunity to transition Wisconsin’s vehicles away from gas and onto renewable energy sources like wind and solar,” added Dunaiski. “Electrifying our transportation sector will result in improved air quality and lower carbon emissions, especially as our grid incorporates more renewable energy sources. And EVs can help nonprofits in Wisconsin save money on vehicle costs and redirect those funds to serving the community.”

Applications for both programs will open on April 1, 2021. Completed grant submissions are due on Saturday, May 1, 2021. Organizations can learn and get more information about the program and how to apply at https://www.renewwisconsin.org/evs-for-good/ and at https://www.renewwisconsin.org/solarforgood/.

 

About EVs for Good
RENEW Wisconsin’s EVs for Good initiative fosters the expansion of electric vehicles among mission-based nonprofits in Wisconsin. RENEW supports transitioning our state’s electric vehicles away from fossil fuels and onto clean, renewable electricity sources. More information can be found at https://www.renewwisconsin.org/evs-for-good.

About Solar for Good
RENEW Wisconsin’s Solar for Good initiative fosters the expansion of solar power among mission-based nonprofits in Wisconsin. Through a generous partnership with Couillard Solar Foundation, RENEW Wisconsin awards solar panels to nonprofit organizations, helping them switch to clean, renewable, solar energy. More information can be found at http://www.renewwisconsin.org/solarforgood.

About RENEW Wisconsin
RENEW Wisconsin is a nonprofit organization which promotes renewable energy in Wisconsin. We work on policies and programs that support solar power, wind power, biogas, local hydropower, geothermal energy, and electric vehicles. More information on RENEW’s website: www.renewwisconsin.org.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.