The Orange-based energy company Avangrid Inc. is partnering with Nissan North America to offer more than 3 million customers and employees across New England, New York and Oregon with a $5,000 discount toward the purchase of a Nissan LEAF electric vehicle.
Avangrid, which has pledged to be carbon-neutral by 2035, marked World Environment Day Wednesday by announcing several initiatives related to electric vehicles, including the discount program. The goal, according to company officials, is to provide more opportunities for customers and employees to participate in clean-energy initiatives.
Avangrid is also expanding its own electric vehicle fleet by 75 percent in 2019. To encourage its employees to use electric vehicles, it has expanded on-site chargers, too.
Additionally, the company is investing $34 million to expand its charging-station infrastructure in Maine and New York.
The initiatives fit with the company’s goal of having fewer emissions.
James P. Torgerson, Avangrid’s chief executive officer, said the company is committed to investing in sustainable energy solutions.
“Demand for clean energy goes beyond powering our homes and businesses,” Torgerson said in an announcement. “Enabling customers to invest in electrified transportation by expanding our incentives and charging infrastructure is yet another component to ensuring a secure energy future.”
Michael Arbuckle, senior manager of electric vehicle sales and fleet for Nissan North America, said Nissan is happy to see companies offering these types of discounts to employees and customers.
“Nissan supports programs that increase electric vehicle adoption,” he said.
Nissan officials are hoping the discount will entice consumers to invest in its electric vehicle, LEAF. While it is environmentally friendly, some may find it cost-prohibitive — the LEAF starts at about $29,900. Nevertheless, it has been a popular model, with more than 400,000 vehicles sold, according to Nissan.
Visit www.energy.gov to learn more about federal and state electric vehicle tax credits and incentives.
