EV Transformer Upgrade Rebate Program
Covers fees over and above the standard electric connection fee associated with the transformer upgrade service performed by CPAU. Single-family homes: Up to $10,000 per property. Multi-family properties: Up to $10,000 per port, with a maximum of $100,000 (10 ports). Eligible ports include make-ready infrastructure (Jbox), Level 1 (L1), or Level 2 (L2) outlets or charging stations.
The City of Palo Alto Utilities offers rebates to help cover the costs of electric service capacity upgrades required for EV charger installations. Rebates are available up to $10,000 for single-family homes and up to $100,000 for other property types, subject to funding availability.
Guidance
The City of Palo Alto Utilities offers rebates between $10,000 and $100,000 to cover the costs of electric service capacity upgrades required for EV charger installations. Single-family homes can receive up to $10,000, while other property types are eligible for up to $100,000.
Homeowner Tasks
- Submit Part 1 of the online application
This initial application must be completed before proceeding with the upgrade process.
- Pay all required building and utility fees
Ensure all associated fees are fully settled.
- Provide a copy of the EV DMV registration
Required as part of the final documentation to prove EV ownership.
- Provide proof of payment for service capacity upgrades
Keep all records and receipts to submit with the final application.
Contractor Tasks
- Obtain necessary permits
Apply for a permit from the City of Palo Alto Development Services for the installation.
- Install qualifying EV charger equipment
Purchase and install the EV charger(s) according to local codes and program guidelines.
- Provide final paid invoices and contact information
Provide the homeowner with a final paid invoice for the installation and your contractor contact details.
- Submit Part 2 of the online application
Submit the second part of the application with the completed permit and all required documentation.
Qualification
- Pre-approval required
- Permit required
Not required: energy star certified equipment · ahri matched pair · income-qualified · has income-qualified portion · contractor enrollment required · fuel switching required
How to Submit
Complete Part 1 of the online application. Apply for a permit from the City of Palo Alto Development Services. Pay all required building and utility fees. Purchase and install qualifying EV Charger(s). Keep copies of all required documentation. Submit Part 2 of the online application within 180 days of submitting Part 1, attaching all required documentation (Retailer/Contractor contact info, final paid invoice(s) for EV Charger installation, completed permit and final inspection, proof of payment for service capacity upgrades, copy of EV DMV registration). Schedule and host CPAU for an on-site post-installation inspection. If approved, receive a rebate check in the mail within 30 business days.