New Jersey Incentives for Home EV Charging
JCP&L’s incentives are meant to make installing a home EV charger more affordable for residents.
Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), part of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), has renewed its push to support electric vehicle (EV) adoption through the EV Driven program. The relaunch follows a first phase that quickly filled up, a clear signal that customers are eager for practical, at-home charging options.
EV Driven helps cover the preparation work needed for home charger installations so residents can go electric without steep upfront costs. The four-year program, backed by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU), is designed to ease the transition to EVs while advancing the state’s environmental goals by cutting carbon emissions and promoting long-term sustainability.
Program Highlights and Financial Support
Initially launched in July 2022, the residential incentive portion of EV Driven carried a budget of about $39.8 million. Participation was so strong that it closed in September 2023—just over a year later. To meet continued demand, and with recent BPU approval, JCP&L has shifted $4.1 million from the program’s non-residential areas, reopening the door for new residential incentives.
Doug Mokoid, President of FirstEnergy’s New Jersey operations, noted New Jersey’s standing as a leading state for EV sales and underscored the company’s focus on making home charging straightforward. He said, “We are thrilled to provide JCP&L customers with the necessary tools and support to prepare for at-home EV charging. The fantastic uptake during our initial program phase was a clear indication of its value to our customers.” The response points to a community ready to choose a cleaner way to drive.
Eligibility and Incentives for Residents
Eligible residents can receive up to $7,000 to offset the prep work required to install a home EV charger. The incentives are structured as follows:
Electrical Upgrades and Utility Upgrades
Participants may receive:
- Up to $1,500 for the electrical upgrades needed to install a compatible Level Two EV charger.
- As much as $5,500 in utility upgrades for supporting infrastructure—such as poles, transformers, and service wires—needed to serve the charger installation.
Encouraging Off-Peak Charging
On top of installation-related support, JCP&L also offers bill credits to encourage charging during off-peak hours. Shifting charging to those times can lower monthly bills and ease strain on the grid when demand is highest, which supports overall grid stability.
The Benefits of Driving Electric Vehicles
Choosing an electric vehicle is a practical step toward a more sustainable future. Many drivers see meaningful savings, with the cost per mile often dropping to as little as one-third of what they’d pay for gasoline. Depending on the model, a full charge can provide a driving range between 80 and 280 miles, enough to fit a wide range of daily routines and commutes.
New Jersey’s Energy Master Plan calls out EV adoption as a key strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With transportation responsible for 46% of the state’s total emissions, electrification is a central piece of meeting New Jersey’s climate targets.
About JCP&L and FirstEnergy
JCP&L serves more than 1.1 million customers across numerous counties, providing essential service while investing in programs that help residents use energy more efficiently. Its continued work on sustainable energy solutions reflects a broader effort to inform and support the communities it serves.
FirstEnergy Corp. is recognized for its commitment to safety, reliability, and operational excellence. As one of the nation’s largest investor-owned electric systems, it serves millions across multiple states—an indication of its reach and role in the energy landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the JCP&L EV Driven program?
EV Driven is a JCP&L program that helps homeowners cover the preparation work needed to install an electric vehicle charger, making at-home charging easier and more affordable.
How much can I receive from the EV Driven program?
Eligible residents can receive up to $7,000, combining incentives for necessary electrical upgrades and utility-side upgrades that support a home charger installation.
What types of upgrades are covered by the incentives?
The program supports required electrical upgrades for a compatible Level Two EV charger and utility infrastructure improvements, including items like poles, transformers, and service wires.
Can I receive incentives for off-peak charging?
Yes. In addition to installation-related support, the program offers bill credits to encourage charging during off-peak hours, which can help lower costs and support the grid.
Why are electric vehicles important for New Jersey?
Transportation accounts for 46% of New Jersey’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Expanding EV use helps reduce those emissions and supports the goals outlined in the state’s Energy Master Plan.
