How Michigan Multifamily Properties Can Get EV Charging At Next to No Cost

Michigan multifamily property owners have a rare opportunity right now: you can install EV charging stations at your properties for $0 out of pocket.

The secret? Combining two active funding programs that together can cover nearly all your installation costs, equipment, and even ongoing maintenance. Here’s how properties across Michigan are securing free EV charging infrastructure – and how you can too.

The free EV charging formula: Two programs, next to no cost

The strategy is straightforward: use DTE Electric’s Multifamily EV Charger Rebate to cover the matching funds required by Michigan’s Clean Fuel & Charging Infrastructure Program. When combined properly, these programs could eliminate nearly all of a property’s costs in rolling out EV charging.

DTE Electric Multifamily EV Charger Rebate provides:

• $5,000 per Level 2 charging port (standard properties)
• $14,400 per Level 2 charging port (income-eligible properties)
• Up to 16 rebates per property site
• Coverage throughout DTE’s Southeast Michigan service area

Michigan Clean Fuel & Charging Infrastructure Program adds:

• Up to $300,000 in additional project funding
• Covers infrastructure, installation, equipment, and maintenance
• Available statewide for all occupied multifamily properties
• No matching funds required for Environmental Justice Communities
• Only 30% match required for other properties (covered by DTE rebate)

Qualification Requirements Made Simple

To qualify for DTE Electric rebates, you need:

• Active DTE Electric service in Southeast Michigan
• Rights to install and maintain charging equipment
• Minimum 2 charging ports (maximum 16 for rebates)
• Level 2 chargers with 11.5kW/48A minimum output
• Commitment to 5-year operation with 97% uptime
• Demonstrated tenant interest in EV charging

To qualify for Michigan state funding, you need:

• Multifamily property with 2+ occupied units in Michigan
• Long-term property use plans
• Level 2 AC charging stations (6kW minimum per port)
• Resident-only access (not public charging)
• OSHA-certified equipment with 97% uptime guarantee

Most established multifamily properties in the correct service area should easily meet these requirements.

The step-by-step application process

Step 1: Calculate your funding potential 

Determine your maximum rebate amount based on:

• Number of planned charging ports
• Property income-eligibility status
• Environmental Justice Community designation

Step 2: Gather required documentation 

Both programs require:

• Property layout with proposed charger locations
• Electrical system evaluation
• Utility “Will Serve Letter”
• Financial statements and organizational structure
• Tenant interest documentation (surveys, EV ownership data)

Step 3: Apply to DTE first 

Submit your DTE Multifamily EV Charger Rebate application immediately. This program operates first-come, first-served with limited annual funding.

Step 4: Submit state application next

Complete your Clean Fuel & Charging Infrastructure Program application through Michigan’s online portal, including detailed budgets and technical specifications.

Step 5: Coordinate installation 

After receiving both approvals, begin installation with your chosen contractor. Both programs prohibit starting work before approval.

Critical timing: why you need to act now

Limited funding creates urgency:

• DTE Electric: First-come, first-served with finite annual rebate pool
• Michigan State: Rolling applications until $5 million total is allocated
• State deadline: All funding must be used by September 30, 2027

Properties that apply early have significantly better chances of securing maximum funding before programs reach capacity.

Maximize speed and your odds of success with expert guidance from SWTCH

For this plan to work to its fullest and for you to successfully install EV charging at zero cost, you’ll have to navigate two program applications. This requires precision.

To give yourself the best odds of success, partner with SWTCH! We’ve helped properties across North America access millions in combined funding, and we know exactly how to structure applications for maximum success.

We’ll be happy to help you sort out the best way to position your project and property for a successful application, and we’ll be able to answer any questions you have along the way.

Ready to secure free EV charging for your Michigan property? Contact SWTCH today for a consultation on your specific project and funding potential.