What $70K-per-Port EV Charger Incentives Really Mean (And Why It Matters for Oregon)
Recently, we saw headlines buzzing about “$70,000 rebates per EV charging port.” Sounds amazing, right?
This jaw-dropping figure comes from Consumers Energy’s PowerMIDrive program in Michigan, targeted specifically to support DC fast charger installations along major highway corridors. It’s one of the most generous state-level programs we’ve seen for EV infrastructure in the U.S.
But here in Oregon, we’re working with a very different incentive landscape.
So… What Does Oregon Offer?
While Oregon doesn’t have $70K-per-port grants lying around, there are solid, stackable rebates that commercial property owners, municipalities, and developers can tap into:
PGE's Business EV Charging Rebate: Up to $1,000 per Level 2 port, with additional incentives for income-qualified or multifamily housing sites.
Oregon DEQ Charge Ahead Program: Offers rebates for low- and moderate-income households and may expand into small business territory.
Federal and state tax credits: Many projects can take advantage of IRA-backed tax incentives or USDA clean energy funding in rural areas.
Combined with smart planning, these programs can still make EV charging cost-effective, and profitable, for your business.
The Problem with “Free Money” Myths
When national headlines make it sound like every state is handing out five-figure rebates, it sets unrealistic expectations for property owners.
At Charli Charging, we spend a lot of time educating our partners and clients on what’s actually available in our region, so projects don’t stall due to misaligned budgets or assumptions.
The truth? EV infrastructure funding is fragmented, constantly changing, and extremely localized. What works in Michigan doesn’t automatically apply in Oregon.
Here’s What You Can Do Instead
Start with your local utility. They usually offer the most consistent and accessible incentives.
Work with an EV partner (like us) who understands how to stack state, federal, and manufacturer rebates to reduce upfront costs.
Think long term. Even modest rebates paired with increased foot traffic, tax savings, and sustainability wins can deliver serious ROI over time.
Oregon Deserves Stronger Support
We believe Oregon can (and should) take bold steps like Michigan to accelerate charger access across rural areas and small towns. But until then, we’re doing what we do best, building smarter, community-centered charging solutions that move the needle now.
If you're a commercial property owner, city leader, or business decision-maker, let’s talk about what incentives are on the table today.
Because you don’t need $70K-per-port to make an impact.
