Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) come in all shapes, types and sizes. From federal tax credits to rebated charging stations (see our EVCS rebate program here), it is now easier and more affordable for you to own and operate an EV.
In fact, our short commutes (on average around 25 miles or less), moderate temperatures with little seasonal variation and historically high gasoline prices make Hawaii an ideal environment for electric vehicles. From 2017 to 2023, the number of registered passenger EVs in Hawaii more than quadrupled from 6,345 to 27,651!
EVs & Energy Usage
If you’re getting an EV and plan to use your home electricity to charge, you’ll want to consider how it may affect your monthly electricity bill.
The great news is that you still can keep your energy costs down while driving an EV by “offsetting”, which is reducing your energy usage in other areas equivalent to the amount of energy you need to charge your car.
Using energy-efficient appliances and equipment is the best way to get this done. In addition to offsetting your energy costs, you’ll be making an even more positive impact on the environment.
Check out other areas of your home where you can save and make a difference:
EV Charging Guide
Offset The Energy Used
To Charge An EV At Home
EV Benefits
- EVs convert over 77% of the electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels. Conventional gasoline vehicles only convert about 12%–30% of the energy stored in gasoline to power at the wheels.
- EVs emit no tailpipe pollutants, although the power plant producing the electricity upstream may emit them. EPA and DOE’s Beyond Tailpipe Emissions Calculator can help you estimate the greenhouse gas emissions associated with charging and driving an EV based on the power source where you charge. The cleaner the power source (such as from solar and wind), the lower the upstream emissions associated with charging.
- Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and stronger acceleration and require less maintenance than internal combustion engines (ICEs).
- EVs are overall newer than their gas powered counterparts and are often more digitally-connected with charging stations providing the option to control charging from an app.
- Purchasing a new or used EV may qualify for a federal point-of-sale credit up to $7,500. Please check with your EV dealership or tax professional on applicability.
- Qualifying EVs with Hawaii state-issued EV license plates may use the HOV/Zipper lane.
Additional Resources
- Electric Vehicle Savings Calculator
- Drive Electric Hawaii (DEH)
- Hawaiian Electric: Electric Vehicles
- Sustainable Transportation Coalition of Hawaii
- Hawaii EV Association
Oahu, Maui County, Big Island
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