PGE EV charger rebates at a glance
Portland General Electric offers rebates that lower the cost of installing a home EV charger. The program has offered rebates on qualifying Level 2 chargers, designed to help customers charge their vehicles at home, with ongoing bill credits as PGE shifts your charging to times when energy demand is lower and sustainable resources are more available.
In this article, we'll look at the kinds of rebates PGE has offered through Smart Charging and how you can participate. Amounts and eligibility change often - we check the current numbers for your home.
Update, Oct 2026: PGE program terms change from year to year. Confirm what is currently open before you buy a charger, or ask us and we will check for you.
Standard Level 2 EV Charger Rebate
PGE's standard Level 2 charger rebate has helped cover part of the cost of purchasing and installing a qualifying EV charger. To be eligible, you generally must be a residential PGE account holder, own or lease an EV or plug-in hybrid, and purchase and install a new qualifying EV charger. Make sure to activate your ChargePoint Home, create a FLO Home account, or connect your JuiceBox charger to the Wi-Fi network, depending on the brand of your charger. Amounts and eligibility change often - we check the current numbers for your home.
Income-Qualified Charger Rebate
For income-qualified customers, PGE has offered an enhanced Level 2 charger rebate. The basic eligibility requirements are the same as the standard rebate, with the addition of meeting income qualifications. Amounts and eligibility change often - we check the current numbers for your home.
Electrical Panel Upgrade Rebate
If installing a qualified Level 2 charger requires replacing your main breaker panel, PGE has offered a panel upgrade rebate to help with that work. To be eligible, you generally must be installing a qualifying Level 2 charger and replacing the main breaker panel with one that meets PGE's capacity requirements. Our electricians can tell you whether your panel needs an upgrade. Amounts and eligibility change often - we check the current numbers for your home.
Income-Qualified Panel Upgrade Rebate
For income-qualified customers, PGE has offered an enhanced electrical panel upgrade rebate. The eligibility requirements are the same as the standard panel upgrade rebate, with the addition of meeting income qualifications. Amounts and eligibility change often - we check the current numbers for your home.
Rebates for Tesla and Other Non-Qualifying Chargers
Tesla Wall Connector and other non-qualifying Level 2 charger users have still been able to receive a smaller rebate plus ongoing bill credits by participating in the PGE Smart Charging Program. Amounts and eligibility change often - we check the current numbers for your home.
"Bring Your Own Charger" Rebate
If you already have a qualifying EV charger installed before it was added to the qualified products list, you may qualify for a rebate. You'll be automatically enrolled in the Smart Charging Program to earn participation rewards.
Participating in the PGE Smart Charging Program
Once you receive a rebate on your qualifying EV charger, you're automatically enrolled in PGE's Smart Charging Program. The program shifts your charger's charging schedule away from peak times when energy use is high and sustainable energy resources are scarcer. By participating in Smart Charging events, you can earn a credit on your bill at the end of each Smart Charging season.
So, how do you participate? Keep your charger connected to the internet, charge your EV regularly, and take part in the events during the season. PGE sets the exact participation requirements each season. You'll be randomly assigned to one of two groups with different Smart Charging Event hours.
With PGE's Smart Charging program, charging your EV at home is more convenient. By installing a Level 2 charger and participating in the program, you can enjoy faster charging times and bill credits.
Choosing the Right Charger for Your Home
To make the most of PGE's Smart Charging program, it's essential to select the right charger for your home. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing between Level 1 and Level 2 chargers:
Level 1 Charger
- No special equipment is needed; plug it into a regular outlet in your garage.
- Power: Typically 1.4 kW
- Charge Time: 3 - 5 miles of range per hour of charging
Level 2 Charger
- Charges much faster than Level 1, and rebates may be available.
- Power: Typically 7 - 12 kW
- Charge Time: ~25 miles of range per hour
Your choice will likely depend on your driving habits, whether you're charging more than one EV, and if you want to earn bill credits through the PGE Smart Charging program.
How to Apply for PGE Rebates
Applying for PGE's EV charger rebates starts on PGE's website. Visit PGE's Smart Charging program website, and follow the step-by-step instructions provided. You'll need to submit proof of purchase for your charger, as well as any required documentation for income-qualified rebates. Once your application is approved, you'll receive your rebate and be enrolled in the Smart Charging program.
Final Thoughts
PGE's EV charger program makes it easier for EV owners to install a home charger. By participating in PGE's Smart Charging program, you're also contributing to a more resilient electric grid. Check what is currently open, and we can help you install the right charger.
Ready to Install Your EV Charger?
To install an EV charger, start with a free quote and a check of your electrical panel. At Energy Solutions, we're passionate about helping our customers make this transition, providing EV charger installation by licensed Oregon electricians.
Contact Energy Solutions today to request your free estimate and begin your journey towards a greener future by submitting a form or by speaking with an EV electrician at (971) 526-5545. For more, check out our post on upgrading your electrical panel.
