The District of Saanich on Vancouver Island has launched a pilot program that will provide rebates to residents purchasing an electric bike (e-bike).
According to the district, the program makes them the first local government in British Columbia to offer such a rebate.
By helping people switch from cars to e-bikes for short commutes around town, Saanich estimates the program will save between 1,000 and 2,000 tonnes of GHG emissions by 2030.
A total of $200,000 has been set aside for the program. To make it accessible to all residents, rebates range from $350 off the purchase of a qualifying e-bike, up to $1,600 for income qualified applicants.
The program is set to target 300 participants in total, with 120 of those reserved for low-income applicants.
Rebates can be applied for after purchase, or at the time of purchase of a qualifying e-bike through a local or online vendor.
Incentive amounts
- $350 – basic incentive for all – no income proof required
- $800 – income qualified incentive
- $1,600 – income qualified incentive
- Discounts for bike safety skills courses: Those who access the e-bike incentive will also be able to access discounted e-bike safety skills classes
For more information and to apply for the rebate, visit saanich.ca/ebike.
