Central Maine Power Company (CMP), a subsidiary of Iberdrola USA, is offering incentives to organizations that wish to try out plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs).

Through its Plug-In Electric Vehicle Grant Program, CMP will offer up to $15,000 to each selected organization to support the lease or purchase of eligible vehicles. Grant recipients may opt to apply a portion of the grant toward the purchase and installation of a Level 2 or 3 charging station.

“Our program is designed to encourage the use of hybrid and electric cars in Maine,” said Adam Cutter, who is managing the utility’s grant program. “It’s also a chance to promote the storage of renewable and other energy generated off-peak to replace fuels with greater climate impacts.”

A limited number of grants are available. To qualify, organizations must be located and/or operating within CMP’s service territory. Vehicles must have electric propulsion (either part- or full-time), plug-in battery charging, and be commercially available. Customized cars, home-made vehicles, or prototypes are not eligible. Participants must also collect data about how the vehicle is used for a period of up to two years.

“We’re looking for organizations that share CMP’s strong commitment to the environment, will maximize road time for the vehicles, and record this important data,” Cutter said. “We also hope to see a broad range of electric vehicle models to help us get a thorough evaluation of the options that are available in today’s market.”

Organizations that wish to participate or look into CMP’s PEV Grant Program can check it out online at www.cmpco.com/electricvehicles.