E-Bike Discount Program to Start in Columbus, OH, 2023

The City of Columbus has announced that it will offer subsidies for electric bike purchases. These subsidies will come in the form of rebates. While the City is currently implementing the online application platform and determining the programs’ parameters, it has a $250,000 budget for its rebates. To be eligible for the rebates, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a household income of less than $150,000 annually. Applicants are eligible for larger rebates if they are low-income and provide documentation that they participate in a qualifying public assistance program, like Medicaid, housing choice vouchers (a.k.a. Section 8), or SNAP (a.k.a. food stamps). All applicants must also submit proof of residency in the City of Columbus with documentation like utility bills, bank statements, or an Ohio Driver’s license.

Columbus is joining several other cities across the United States in providing incentives to purchase electric bicycles. Like other communities, the City of Columbus is using this program as part of its efforts related to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. Early e-bike incentive initiatives like these can outline best practices for upcoming programs as more communities experiment with their climate change efforts.

Last updated July 7, 2023