The Center for Sustainable Energy implements the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) Pre-Owned Electric Vehicle program that provides customers with rebates for purchasing or leasing a used EV.
The program offers qualifying electric service customers two levels of incentives, a $1,000 standard rebate, or a $4,000 Rebate Plus for applicants who meet income requirements.
As program implementer, CSE processes applications, issues rebate checks and reports on program statistics. CSE also conducts marketing and outreach to increase program participation, working with car dealers to educate their sales staff about EVs and with community-based organizations to educate constituents on EV benefits and rebates.
CSE also implements PG&E’s Residential EV Charging program that provides qualifying customers rebates that help cover the cost of eligible EV charging equipment and installation.
The rebates are funded by PG&E’s participation in California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. This program is not funded by customer or ratepayer funds.
PG&E Pre-Owned EV Rebate Impacts
As of April 2026
CSE has distributed over 26,300 rebate checks.
CSE has issued more than $63.7 million in incentives for EVs.
78% of incentive dollars distributed to income-qualified applicants..
Program at a Glance
Program Goals
Encourage used EV adoption in the PG&E service territory, especially among underserved communities.
CSE's Role
Implement the PG&E Pre-Owned EV Rebate program and provide information on clean vehicles and rebates to consumers, dealerships and stakeholders.
Technologies
Key Partners
Pacific Gas and Electric
Community-based organizations
Used auto dealers
State Policies Supported
California Assembly Bill 32
California Senate Bill 32
Help achieve California executive order requiring five million zero-emission vehicles on state roads by 2030.
Impact Statement
Expand EV adoption and analyze the impact of rebates on the rate of used EV adoption.
