Program gives rebates to Portlanders who buy e-bikes

The rebates will be redeemed at Portland bike retailers that conduct both sales and repairs.

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Next summer, Portland sustainability leaders will provide rebates to low and medium-income residents who purchase electric bikes.

In an early July meeting, the Portland City Council approved the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability’s Strategic Program 6. The program, titled “Comprehensive E-Bike Access and Support,” will cover e-bike discounts for eligible cyclists.

On Thursday, BPS explained that SP 6 was developed in response to the city’s goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

According to the bureau, the Oregon Household Activities Survey found that 80% of daily trips in the Portland area are traveled by car, while Multnomah County’s transportation sector makes up 44% of carbon emissions.

Officials determined that reducing the number of trips completed in gas-powered cars would boost their goal.

“The high initial cost puts [e-bikes] out of reach for many, often starting at $1,500,” BPS said. “We hope to change that. Access to e-bikes will be a greener transportation option for people to commute to work, run errands, and get to services in their communities.”

Another potential advantage would be safety. The bureau reported that many survey respondents who are women or people of color have expressed they would feel less vulnerable on e-bikes than traditional bikes.

The rebates will be redeemed at Portland bike retailers that conduct both sales and repairs. Officials plan to begin the request-for-proposals process later this summer.