Atlantic City, slash the costs of EV charging with ACE’s EVsmart Make-Ready Program for Multifamily Buildings
Electric vehicle adoption is accelerating across New Jersey, and residents of multifamily properties increasingly expect convenient access to charging options. For property owners and managers, Atlantic City Electric’s EVsmart Make-Ready Program presents a significant opportunity to install EV charging infrastructure with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Here’s a detailed look at the program, what it offers, how to apply, and how to maximize your odds of securing funding.
You can see other NJ-specific EV charging incentive and rebate programs here.
What is the Atlantic City Electric EVsmart Make-Ready Program?
The EVsmart Make-Ready Program is designed to accelerate the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure throughout Atlantic City Electric’s service territory in southern New Jersey. For multifamily property owners, the program offers substantial rebates to cover the “make-ready” costs associated with preparing your electrical infrastructure for EV charging stations.
The term “make-ready” refers to the pre-wiring of electrical infrastructure at parking spaces to facilitate easy and cost-efficient installation of EV chargers. This includes expenses related to service panels, junction boxes, conduit, wiring, and other electrical components necessary to make your location ready for charger installation.
Available Funding for Multifamily Properties
The funding available through this program is particularly generous for multifamily buildings, with enhanced incentives for properties in overburdened communities:
For standard multifamily properties:
- 75% of eligible make-ready installation costs are covered up to $5,000 per charging port
- Maximum of 10 ports are eligible per location
For multifamily properties in overburdened communities:
- 100% of make-ready installation costs are covered up to $6,700 per charging port
- Maximum of 10 ports are eligible per location
You can verify if your property is in an overburdened community through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection website.
Eligibility Requirements for Multifamily Properties
To qualify for the program, your multifamily property must meet these criteria:
Equipment Eligibility
- Limited to new EV charging infrastructure
- Must be located in Atlantic City Electric’s service territory
- Chargers must be new, qualified smart Level 2 chargers with rated capacity of at least 3.8kW
- Must use standard SAE J1772 L2 or NACS connectors
- All L2 chargers must be ENERGY STAR certified
Operational Requirements
- Charging stations must be accessible to all EV-driving residents
- Limited to 10 ports per property site
- No single customer can account for more than 20% of the total program budget
- All work must be completed by a licensed electrician
- Site hosts must share charging data with Atlantic City Electric
The Application Process
To apply to this program, follow this procedure.
- Initial Submission: Submit your application through ACE’s online portal with basic project information and documentation including electrical plans.
- Application Review: The program team reviews your submission to ensure all requirements are met. If additional information is needed, you’ll receive notification.
- Approval and Notice to Proceed: Upon approval, you’ll receive a Preliminary Incentive Disclosure detailing your approved incentive amount and authorizing you to begin construction.
- Installation and Verification: After installation, you’ll need to ensure your chargers are properly networked and communicating with your chosen network provider.
- Final Approval and Payment: Once all documentation is verified and charging data connection is confirmed, your rebate payment will be processed.
The typical timeline from application to approval is approximately 2-3 months, though this can vary based on the complexity of your project and completeness of your application.
Required Documentation
To complete your application, you’ll need to provide:
- A valid Atlantic City Electric account number for the installation location
- An installation quote or invoice from a licensed electrician
- A site plan showing:
- Nearby public roads
- The location of the electrical panel
- Proposed charger locations and parking spaces
- Electrical paths from the panel to the chargers
- Description of the chargers’ use
- Photos of the charger serial numbers after installation
Why Act Now: Timing Considerations
The EVsmart Make-Ready Program is available through December 31, 2026, but funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. With the rapidly growing demand for EV charging, these funds may be exhausted well before the end date.
With electric vehicle adoption accelerating across New Jersey, properties with charging capabilities are becoming increasingly desirable to potential residents. Installing chargers now not only positions your property ahead of future mandates but also provides a valuable amenity that can attract and retain residents.
Get Expert Help With Your Application
Our team at SWTCH specializes in helping multi-unit property owners navigate the entire EV charging installation process, from initial application through installation and ongoing management.
To maximize your odds of a successful ACE EVsmart application, we can guide you through the process, recommend compliant charging equipment, connect you with trusted installers, and manage your charging stations post-installation.
Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you maximize your incentives and deliver a superior EV charging experience for your residents!
