Key takeaways
- The federal Section 30C charger credit (30% up to $1,000 per port for homes in eligible census tracts) does not apply to chargers placed in service after June 30, 2026.
- For most San Diego homeowners, the biggest ongoing saving is an SDG&E EV time-of-use rate that makes overnight charging cheaper.
- SDG&E's charger programs mainly target multifamily, workplace and fleet sites rather than single-family homes.
- Vehicle incentives still exist for income-qualified drivers, including SDG&E's pre-owned EV rebate.
- Incentives change often — check current status before you buy.
What changed in 2026
The federal Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit (Section 30C) gave homeowners in eligible low-income or non-urban census tracts 30% of the cost of a charger and its installation, up to $1,000 per port. Under the 2025 federal tax law, the credit is not allowed for property placed in service after June 30, 2026. If your charger was installed and working before that date, talk to your tax preparer about claiming it on Form 8911.
What San Diego homeowners can still use
- SDG&E EV time-of-use rates. SDG&E offers pricing plans designed for EV drivers with lower prices overnight. For most households this saves more over time than a one-time rebate. A Level 2 charger with scheduling makes it easy to charge only in the cheapest hours.
- Solar and battery pairing. Charging from your own solar, or from a Powerwall charged by solar, avoids peak prices altogether.
- Vehicle incentives for income-qualified drivers. SDG&E lists a pre-owned EV rebate ($1,000 or $4,000 depending on household income), and regional programs such as Driving Clean Assistance and Clean Cars 4 All can help with the car itself.
For businesses, HOAs and multifamily properties
Utility and state charging programs focus on workplaces, multifamily properties and fleets. SDG&E's charging programs, where funding is open, can cover part of the infrastructure. These programs have specific requirements for networked chargers, data reporting and site ownership, so it pays to check eligibility before choosing equipment.
How to keep installation costs down without a rebate
- Right-size the charger. A 40A or 48A circuit covers most commutes; you may not need the maximum.
- Use load management instead of a panel upgrade where the load calculation allows it.
- Install near the panel when practical to shorten the wire run.
- Plan for two EVs now — a charger with power sharing avoids a second project later.
Check before you buy
Programs open, close and change funding frequently. When we quote your installation, we check the current SDG&E and state programs for your address and vehicle, and tell you what applies.
Common questions
