Electric Vehicles 101

Thinking about a new car? Go electric and save!

Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) supports your transition to electric vehicles (EVs) by offering rebates, tools, and information that promote energy efficiency and help you reduce carbon emissions.

Why Choose Electric?

EVs are a key part of RMLD's commitment to electrification and a more sustainable energy future. Driving electric has significant environmental benefits, helps reduce carbon emissions, and can help owners save on vehicle operating and maintenance costs. 

Reduced Emissions

RMLD's power supply is becoming increasingly non-carbon, including power sourced from in-territory chargers. This means every electric mile you drive produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional vehicles. Choosing an EV supports community goals for a more efficient energy future.

Lower Costs

Driving an EV is not only good for the environment but can help RMLD customers reduce transportation costs.

  • Electricity costs less than gasoline on a per-mile basis. 
  • EVs require less maintenance, with no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and lower overall upkeep.
  • RMLD customers can take advantage of rebates and incentives that make EV ownership more affordable.
  • Timing your charge can make a real difference in cost. When you receive an EV charger rebate from RMLD, you will switch to a Time-of-Use (TOU) rate. giving you the opportunity to save money when you charge off peak. 

Check Out These Rebates and Incentives:

  1. Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate
    RMLD offers rebates of up to $750 for customers who purchase and install an electric vehicle charger at their residence within RMLD's service territory. The program supports local electrification efforts and helps reduce carbon emissions. Explore requirements and apply >>


  1. Commercial Electric Vehicle Charger Station Rebate
    RMLD offers rebates for non-residential customers who install electric vehicle chargers at their facility within service territory. The program supports electrification in the commercial sector and helps reduce carbon emissions. Explore requirements and apply >>

  1. State EV Incentives
    Massachusetts offers a rebate of up to $3,500 for new and used EVs and up to $7,500 for EV pickups.

Did you know? RMLD is proud to partner with Energy New England (ENE) to bring you RMLD Drives Electric. RMLD Drives Electric is an outreach program informing customers about the savings and benefits that come from choosing an electric car. Visit the RMLD Drives Electric site for tips, EV comparisons and more.

Charging Your Electric Vehicle

Home Charging

Most EV owners charge at home for convenience. While you can plug into a standard 120-volt outlet (Level 1), upgrading to a Level 2 charging station provides a must faster charge. Level 2 chargers typically add 15 to 40 miles of range per hour compared to 2 to 5 miles of range per hour from a Level 1 charger. Learn more about charging stations at the Department of Energy.

RMLD offers a rebate for customers who install a qualified Level 2 charger at home. This helps offset installation costs and supports efficient, reliable charging. Learn more about the Level 2 charger rebate. 

Need guidance on choosing a system for at home charging? Visit the Green Energy Consumers Alliance Guide to Installing EV Charging at Home.

Public Charging 

Public charging stations are located throughout Massachusetts at shopping centers, public lots, workplaces, and other convenient destinations.

For drivers who need a faster charge, RMLD operates one DC Fast Charger at the Reading Public Library. This station can add up to 170 miles of range in about 20 minutes.

RMLD also maintains several public Level 2 charging stations throughout our service area. View all RMLD public chargers. 

Looking for local charging? These sites offer interactive tools to search for local charging locations:

Tip! Enroll your charger in RMLD's Connected Homes program and earn quarterly incentives for managing your energy use during peak times. 

Experience Electric Vehicles Firsthand

Curious about what it's like to drive electric? Join RMLD at our annual Electric Vehicle Show to see a wide variety of EV models up close and talk directly with local dealerships and energy experts.

At the event, you can: 

  • Learn about charging options and rebate programs available to RMLD customers
  • Ask questions about range, performance, and cost savings 
  • Discover how electrification is shaping the future of transportation in our communities 

The EV Show is part or RMLD's commitment to education and community engagement around efficient, non-carbon technologies.

Ready to explore EVs in person? Check our RMLD's EV Show every August to explore the latest models, ask questions, and learn more about our rebates and programs.