British Columbia Electric Bike Incentives : Government rebates on EBike and Cargo ETrikes

As the shift toward sustainable transportation grows, British Columbia (BC) offers various incentives to encourage residents to adopt electric bikes (e-bikes). Here's a comprehensive overview of active, proposed, and closed programs across BC that provide rebates, tax waivers, low-interest loans, and other incentives for e-bike purchases.

1. Provincial Initiatives

BC Provincial Sales Tax (PST) Waiver

• Status: Active
• Incentive: PST exemption on qualifying e-bikes.
• Details: To qualify, e-bikes must:
  • Have pedals enabling human propulsion.
  • Have wheels at least 350mm in diameter.
  • Be limited to 32 km/h speed and 500W motor output.
  • Lack combustion engines.

Clean BC

• Status: Active
• Incentive: $1,700 rebate
• Details: Non-profits and businesses can receive rebates for electric cargo bikes.
  • Additional rebates for electric motorcycles ($2,000) and low-speed vehicles (up to $5,000).

2. Regional Programs

Nelson E-Bike Program

• Status: Active
• Incentive: Up to $8,000 low-interest loan
• Details: Nelson homeowners can finance e-bike purchases, accessories, or conversion kits.
  • Loan repayments are added to the Nelson Hydro electric bill.
  • Interest rate: 3.5%.
  • Amortization: 2–5 years.

North Vancouver E-Bike Program

• Status: Unknown (Waiting for Updates)
• Incentive: $400–$1,600 based on income
• Details:
  • Open to median-to-low-income earners.
  • Budget of $135,000 allows for 100 households to benefit.

West Vancouver E-Bike Incentive

• Status: Unknown (Waiting for Updates)
• Incentive: $500 or $1,500 based on income
• Details: Pilot program targeting sustainability with a $135,000 budget.

3. Workplace Incentives

TRU Employee E-Bike Discount (Kamloops)

• Status: Active
• Incentive: Up to $300 rebate
• Details:
  • 10% off purchase value for employees (maximum $300).
  • Financing available for higher-value bikes (repayment terms based on employment status).

4. Closed or Proposed Programs

Saanich E-Bike Incentive Pilot Program

• Status: Closed
• Incentive: Up to $350 and PST waiver
• Details: Ran between October 2021 and February 2023, providing over 100 income-based incentives. Recommendations for future programs are under consideration.

SCRAP-IT Program

• Status: Not Active ($300 Cash incentive available though)
• Incentive: $750 rebate
• Details: Trade in your old vehicle and receive $750 towards a new e-bike.
  • Minimum e-bike purchase price: $1,200 (before taxes).
  • Purchase must be from a SCRAP-IT program partner in BC.
  • Rebate is issued to the person who scrapped the vehicle, and the purchase must be completed within 30 days of approval.

BC Ebike Rebate 

• Status: Not Active 
• Incentive: $350-$1400 rebate
• Details:
• Started on June 1, 2023, rebates on the purchase of an approved e-bike will be available to B.C. residents older than 19
• Based on a person’s income. 

How to Take Advantage of E-Bike Incentives

Each program has unique eligibility requirements and application processes. To make the most of these opportunities:

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm income or residency requirements.
2. Choose the Right Program: Some programs prioritize low-income households or homeowners.
3. Act Quickly: Many programs have limited budgets and close once funds are exhausted.
4. Partner Retailers: Ensure your purchase is from approved sellers.

E-bikes offer a cost-effective, eco-friendly transportation alternative. With these programs, transitioning to an e-bike has never been more accessible in British Columbia.