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Colorado thinks big with e-bike rebates for all

Colorado has launched the first state-wide e-bike rebate program in the US, allowing all residents to save up to $450 off an e-bike at the point of purchase.

The e-bike tax credit went live on 1 April and is designed to encourage people to use e-bikes for short trips in place of cars.

Research shows that e-bike ownership can significantly reduce car use, saving people money and encouraging them to undertake regular physical activity.

Governments around the world are undertaking e-bike rebate programs to accelerate adoption and fast-track efforts to curtail carbon emissions in the transport sector.

Separately to more than two dozen financial incentives in place in different counties and districts around the state, the Colorado Energy Office previously offered e-bike rebates to income-qualified residents, amounting to $1100 for those deemed low-income and $500 for those who qualified as moderate income.

That program resulted in more than 5,500 e-bike purchases between August 2023 and February 2024, according to the Colorado Energy Office.

By moving to a state-wide tax credit of $450 for all people living in Colorado who buy an e-bike at a participating retailer, political leaders hope to expand access to e-bikes for transportation and truly unlock their potential as a tool for emissions reductions. The discount will be available through to 2032.

“Whether it’s picking up groceries or making sure you get to work, e-bikes are a great way for so many Coloradans to not only make their everyday short commutes but also save money and help lower greenhouse gas emissions,” said Colorado Energy Office Executive Director Will Toor.

“We look forward to implementing and building this rebate program over the next several years and believe it will be an important part of our overall climate work.”

Financial incentives for e-bike purchases have been implemented in Australia, including programs in Tasmania and in Adelaide.

Bicycle Network is campaigning for governments of all levels to implement similar policies that address the purchase price of e-bikes and lower the barrier to entry.

Read more on our campaign page here.

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