Cash In Now: New Jersey’s “It Pay$ to Plug In” Offers Up to $4,000 Per EV Charging Port
Looking to install electric vehicle charging stations at your business or multifamily property in New Jersey? The “It Pay$ to Plug In” program can cover a significant portion of your costs with grants of up to $4,000 per charging port.
This is a state-sponsored initiative designed to dramatically expand New Jersey’s electric vehicle infrastructure network while improving air quality through reduced emissions. Read on to discover if your project qualifies and how to secure funding before it runs out.
You can see other NJ-specific EV charging incentive and rebate programs here.
What is “It Pay$ to Plug In” and What Funding Does it Offer?
The “It Pay$ to Plug In” program provides grants to offset the cost of purchasing and maintaining electric vehicle charging stations throughout New Jersey. Operated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), this program makes EV charging infrastructure more accessible and affordable for organizations across the state.
Funding is available for both Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations, with specific reimbursement amounts based on the charging level:
- Level 1 charging ports: Up to $750 per port
- Level 2 charging ports: Up to $4,000 per port
- eMobility projects: Variable reimbursements depending on location and public accessibility
These grants can significantly reduce your investment costs, making EV charging a more viable option for your property.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
The “It Pay$ to Plug In” program is designed for a wide range of applicants, though there are some limitations on who can participate.
Eligible Applicants:
- Businesses and corporations
- Government agencies (state, county, municipal)
- Non-profit organizations
- Educational institutions
- Multi-unit dwellings (apartments, condominiums, townhouses) with a minimum of 5 units
Important Note:
Private residential dwellings (other than qualifying multi-unit dwellings) are not eligible for grants under this program.
Qualifying Project Types
The program supports several categories of charging infrastructure projects:
Workplace Charging
Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations for employees who drive electric vehicles to work or for organization-owned fleet vehicles.
Public Access Charging
Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations open to the public, including installations in:
- Downtown areas
- Public parking lots and garages
- Hotels and hospitality locations
- Transit centers
- Leisure destinations
- Colleges and universities
- Retail parking areas
- Public parks
Multi-Unit Dwelling Charging
- Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations for residents of apartment buildings, condominiums, and townhouse communities with a minimum of 5 units.
Corridor Fast Charging
DC Fast Charging stations (150kW or greater) that are:
- Open to the public
Located on priority corridors identified in the strategic mapping
Community Fast Charging
DC Fast Charging stations (50kW or greater) that are:
- Open to the public
- Located in places where people live and work
eMobility Projects
Electrification projects for shared mobility initiatives like car sharing and ride-hailing services.
Equipment Requirements
Not all charging equipment qualifies for this program. To be eligible for funding, here are the requirements for different categories of charging hardware.
For Level 1 and Level 2 Charging Equipment:
All equipment with a manufacture date after January 18, 2023, must meet or exceed the “Energy Star Program Requirements Product Specification for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment, Version 1.0” developed by the EPA.
Applications for equipment currently in the process of obtaining Energy Star certification may be conditionally approved, with final payment contingent on obtaining the certification.
For DC Fast Charging Equipment:
DCFC equipment is not subject to the Energy Star requirement but must meet other program specifications outlined in the program overview.
For more information on equipment specifications, visit:
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
The application process follows a clear sequence through New Jersey’s System for Administering Grants Electronically (SAGE).
1: Program Research and SAGE Registration
- Read the Program Overview and Instructions thoroughly
- Register and familiarize yourself with the SAGE portal
- Review the detailed SAGE Instructions for application submission
- Check the FAQ section for answers to common questions
2: Gather Required Documentation
- Obtain three (3) quotes for your chosen EV charging stations
- Ensure equipment meets all program requirements
- Prepare necessary site information and project plans
3: Submit Application
- Complete all required forms in the SAGE portal
- Upload all required documentation
- Submit your application for review
4: Grant Agreement
- If approved, NJDEP will provide a grant agreement through the SAGE portal
- Review and execute the agreement
- Note: Application approval is not the same as grant execution
5: Project Installation
- Install your Level 1 or Level 2 charging stations within 9 months of grant execution
- CRITICAL REQUIREMENT: Do not purchase or install equipment before your grant has been executed
- Remember that completed projects are not eligible for retroactive funding
6: Submit Project Documentation
- Complete and submit the Expenditure Report
- Submit the Charger Information Form
- Provide paid itemized invoices
- Include proof of payment
- Submit photos of the installed equipment
7: Receive Reimbursement
- After NJDEP review and approval of all documentation
- Grant funds will be disbursed according to the agreement terms
Important Program Limitations
Application Waitlist New applications are added to a waitlist and approved on a first-come, first-served basis. This means funding is not guaranteed even if you meet all eligibility requirements.
Program Changes Be aware that programmatic changes may be made during the application or grant process. The NJDEP may contact applicants for updates.
Utility Program Coordination If you are participating in both “It Pay$ to Plug In” and a utility EV charging infrastructure incentive program simultaneously, you must notify both NJDEP and the appropriate utility program of your dual participation.
Act Now to Secure Your Funding
The “It Pay$ to Plug In” program represents a significant opportunity for New Jersey organizations to install EV charging infrastructure at a reduced cost. With grants covering up to $4,000 per Level 2 charging port, this program makes EV charging more accessible and affordable than ever before.
However, with funding available on a first-come, first-served basis and applications being waitlisted, the time to act is now. Organizations interested in installing EV charging should begin their application process as soon as possible to maximize their chances of securing funding.
Whether you’re a business looking to attract environmentally conscious customers, a municipality working to reduce emissions, or a multi-unit dwelling seeking to provide modern amenities to residents, “It Pay$ to Plug In” can help make your EV charging project a reality.
How SWTCH can help you secure funding through the New Jersey “It Pay$ to Plug In” Program
Our team at SWTCH has successfully helped dozens of customers across North America secure funding through incentive and rebate programs, and we want to do the same for you.
Reach out to our team for guidance! We’ll offer suggestions to help ensure your application has the best possible chance of approval, and we’ll also work with you to create the ideal EV charging solution for your property.
