Need an E-bike?

State program for low-income individuals opens Wednesday, Dec. 18, at 6 pm

The state of California is launching a new program that is expected to provide roughly 1,500 low-income Californians up to $2,000 toward the purchase of a new e-bike. The first installment of the launch is funded at $3 million.

The program will start accepting applications on the website at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18, and will be processed in the order received until vouchers are exhausted.

Sonoma County Bicycle Coalition director Eris Weaver, who was involved in the initial meetings for the program, said she expects the bikes to be snapped up quickly.

“Even though the amount of money sounds like a lot, given the size of the state, it’s gonna be fully subscribed in a day,” she predicted.

To qualify, California residents have to be age 18 or older and have an annual household income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. Priority applicants will receive additional funding if they live in a disadvantaged or low-income community or have an annual household income at or below 225% of the Federal Poverty Level.

The whole process, from application to the purchase of an e-bike, is described here.

Once someone has been approved for participation in the program, they’ll be emailed a voucher, which they can redeem at participating retailers. The voucher can also be used to buy accessories like bike helmets and bike locks.

The Sebastopol Bike Center, which offers a range of e-bikes, didn’t learn about the program in time to participate in this round, but several bike stores in Santa Rosa are listed on the program’s website, including NorCal Bike Sport, the Bike Peddler, Trek Santa Rosa, and more

The goal of the program, which is sponsored by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), is to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower transportation costs for low-income Californians.

“By using e-bikes, people can get around and meet everyday needs while improving air quality,” said Dr. Steven Cliff, CARB’s executive officer. “Prioritizing equity and access is key as we work to achieve our zero-emissions goals, and this incentive program will support those efforts by helping e-bikes be part of the solution.”

Find more information about the program at ebikeincentives.org.