February 25, 2025

Wisconsin Electric Vehicle Tax Credits, Rebates, and Incentives

8 Min. Read

Wisconsin is making significant strides in advancing charging infrastructure and electric vehicle (EV) adoption through a combination of utility-driven programs, financial incentives, and a growing charging infrastructure.

With flexible rate plans and rebates designed to lower upfront costs, utility programs across the state are fostering a more accessible and affordable transition to EVs for both residents and businesses.

In this guide, we explore Wisconsin’s EV tax credits, rebates, and incentives, highlighting how these initiatives can help residents make the switch to sustainable transportation.

Wisconsin EV Rebates

While Wisconsin does not currently offer state-specific rebates or tax credits for new or used EV purchases, residents can take advantage of federal incentives:

Federal Tax Credit

Through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, buyers of eligible new vehicles may qualify for a Clean Vehicle Tax Credit of up to $7,500 for purchasing a new plug-in EV. Eligibility and the credit amount depend on the model and whether the vehicle meets North American assembly requirements.

Wisconsin EV Charger Rebates

Although the state does not provide a universal rebate for EV chargers, several utilities and cooperatives offer incentives to encourage home charging installations.

These local utilities and cooperatives have implemented programs to encourage EV adoption and reduce the upfront costs of installing home EV charging equipment:

Chippewa Valley Electric Cooperative (CVEC)

Chippewa Valley Electric Cooperative (CVEC) offers a $400 rebate for customers who purchase and install a Level 2 EV charging station. To qualify, customers must submit the required documentation within three months of purchase.

Clark Electric Cooperative (CEC)

Clark Electric Cooperative (CEC) provides its customers with an $800 rebate for installing a ZEF Smart Electric Vehicle Charging Station with integrated metering, however, the station must also be on load control as defined by the cooperative.

East Central Energy

East Central Energy (ECE) offers a $500 rebate for installing a Level 2 EV charger at your primary residence. To qualify, you must enroll in either the time-of-use rate or off-peak storage rate programs.

Madison Gas and Electric (MGE)

Madison Gas and Electric’s (MGE) Charge@Home program provides residential customers with a Level 2 EV charger installed at their primary residence for a monthly fee of approximately $20, in addition to the cost of electricity used. This program eliminates upfront installation costs and includes maintenance of the charging station.

Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS)

Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS) offers residential customers rebates ranging from $400 to $800 for the installation of a Level 2 EV charging station. To qualify, the charging station must be connected to PPCS’s load management system.

Riverland Energy Cooperative

Riverland Energy Cooperative offers rebates for the installation of Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations. Members can receive a $400 rebate for a Level 2 charger connected to the cooperative’s load control system, or an $800 rebate for a smart charger with integrated metering.

Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy offers a rebate of up to $500 for customers who install a Level 2 electric vehicle charger at their primary residence. This rebate is also part of Xcel Energy’s Home Wiring Rebate Program, which assists customers with the costs of installing the necessary wiring and purchasing an eligible EV charger.

Additionally, income-qualified customers of the utility may be eligible for an enhanced rebate of up to $1,300, depending on their income level.

EV Charging Rates in Wisconsin

To further help EV owners reduce charging costs by encouraging off-peak charging, utilities in Wisconsin offer time-of-use (TOU) electricity rates designed to lower the cost of charging EVs.

These TOU plans incentivize vehicle charging during off-peak hours, making EV ownership more affordable.

We Energies

We Energies offers a residential TOU pricing plan that allows EV owners to take advantage of lower electricity rates during off-peak periods.

On-peak periods can be selected from several options, including 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with off-peak hours covering all other times. On-peak rates are $0.30 per kWh, while off-peak rates are reduced to $0.04 per kWh.

Wisconsin Public Service (WPS)

Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) has a Residential EV Charger Pilot Program specifically tailored for EV owners. This program provides a three-part TOU rate for EV charger loads while keeping the rest of the household’s electricity usage under the standard rate.

During winter (October to April), on-peak hours are from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., while summer (May to September) on-peak hours are from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a rate of $0.30 per kWh. Mid-peak hours in winter occur from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., while in summer, they are from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., with a rate of $0.13 per kWh.

Off-peak hours, which are consistent year-round, are from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m., with a significantly reduced rate of $0.08 per kWh. Additionally, weekends and holidays are classified as off-peak times, providing further opportunities for savings.

Public EV Charging Stations in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is actively expanding its public charging infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing EV market.

Designed to provide reliable charging options for both residents and travelers, the state currently features a robust network of Level 2 chargers and DC Fast chargers strategically placed along major highways and in urban centers.

How Many Public EV Charging Stations Are in Wisconsin?

As of early 2025, Wisconsin has 578 publicly accessible EV charging stations with 1,373 total ports, including 90 high-speed chargers.

The state is actively expanding its EV infrastructure, with plans to add 53 new Level 3 DC fast-charging stations across various locations.

How Much Do Public EV Charging Stations Cost in Wisconsin?

The cost of charging depends on the type of station and provider.

On average, charging on Level 2 chargers costs from $0.10 to $0.20 per kWh, in addition to any other charging fees, while charging on DC Fast chargers ranges from $0.30 to $0.50 per kWh.

For more precise locations and availability, refer to the Alternative Fuels Data Center.

Are There Free Electric Car Charging Stations in Wisconsin?

Yes, some municipalities and organizations in Wisconsin offer free EV charging as a public service.

These stations are often located in community centers, libraries, and municipal parking facilities.

City of Madison

The City of Madison provides EV charging stations in various public parking garages and lots.

For instance, the Overture Center Garage offers two public charging stations and one accessible charging station. Similarly, the Capitol Square North Garage has two charging stations and one accessible charging station.

These stations are strategically placed to serve EV owners visiting downtown Madison.

Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) Charging Network

MGE operates a network of public charging stations throughout Madison, providing electricity generated from 100% renewable sources.

The cost for charging at Level 1 and Level 2 EV charging stations is $0.18 per kWh. Charging at the DC Fast Charge station is $0.34 per kWh.

Locations include the Aldo Leopold Nature Center and the Dane County Regional Airport’s Cell Phone Lot.

Portage District Library

The Portage District Library offers a ChargePoint commercial charging station located on the south end of their parking lot.

While not free, the cost is $2.00 per hour, providing a convenient option for library patrons and visitors.

University of Wisconsin–Madison

Electric vehicle charging stations are available in multiple campus parking facilities at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

These stations are cost-free for permit holders in their assigned lots, supporting sustainable transportation for university staff and students.

City of Eau Claire

The City of Eau Claire provides public EV charging stations to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles.

These stations are part of the city’s sustainability initiatives and are located in accessible areas for public use.

Please note that while some charging stations are free, others may have associated costs. It’s advisable to check the specific terms and availability before use.

Where Are Public EV Charging Stations Located in Wisconsin?

Public chargers are widely available across Wisconsin’s major urban centers, including strategic locations such as Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay.

For example, Milwaukee offers multiple charging stations, including at the Milwaukee Public Market, while Madison provides options at the University of Wisconsin campus and along major streets like State Street.

Along key highways such as I-94 and I-90, drivers can find chargers at rest areas and service plazas, ensuring easy access for long-distance travel.

Additionally, popular destinations such as the Milwaukee Art Museum and Miller Park feature public chargers, making it convenient for EV owners to charge while visiting local attractions.

Use resources such as the Alternative Fuels Data Center to locate nearby stations.

Electrification in Wisconsin

With an expanding network of utility incentives, cost-saving TOU rates, and an increasing number of public charging stations, Wisconsin is paving the way for a more sustainable transportation future.

Now is the perfect time to go electric in Wisconsin, thanks to the wide range of utility programs available. Contact your utility provider to explore the incentives and rebates you qualify for, and consider hiring a certified EV installer to ensure your charger is installed safely and performs optimally.

Qmerit is here to help.

With the savings available from Wisconsin, including charger rebates, utility rebates, and time-of-use programs, alongside the rapidly growing rate of EV adoption, there’s never been a better time to make the switch to electrification.

The cost savings created by adopting clean, sustainable energy are just the start of the benefits you’ll see, and by partnering with a qualified electrician who can tailor an EV charger installation to your specific needs, you can maximize these benefits even more.

As North America’s most trusted and largest network of certified EV charger installers, Qmerit is recommended by automakers, EV charger manufacturers, utilities, businesses, and homeowners alike. Rated #1 in customer satisfaction, our expert network has installed over 450,000 EV charging stations across the U.S. and Canada.

Discover how Qmerit is paving the way forward for residential EV charger installation and whole-home electrification solutions. Contact us today to find out how easy home electrification can be!