Ava Community Energy (Ava) is the not-for-profit public power provider for more than 2 million residents and commercial customers in Alameda County and the cities of Tracy, Stockton, and Lathrop. In July, the organization announced the launch of its Ava Bike Electric Incentive Program, which aims to increase equitable e-bike adoption, reduce transportation-related carbon emissions, and support local businesses. Customers of Ava Community Energy, as well as residents of Alameda County who are 18 years or older, are eligible to receive instant rebates on the purchase of a new e-bike by participating in the program. Funding partner Alameda County Transportation Commission (Alameda CTC) provided $4 million of the $10 million program budget.

“Ava is dedicated to increasing access to cleaner energy and enabling the adoption of products that take advantage of it,” according to Howard Chang, CEO of Ava Community Energy. “Consumers are discovering that the electric option – be that a car, an induction cooktop, a heat pump, or a bike – is not only greener, it’s just a better experience. What’s more, research shows that over half the daily trips taken in the U.S. are under three miles. Shifting even a portion of those trips from a gas-powered car to an e-bike would have an outsized impact on our residents’ health, the economy, and air quality. We are proud to do our part to further e-bike adoption with the Ava Bike Electric program.”

Program officials hope to distribute between 8,200 and 9,200 instant rebates by September 2026, when the program ends. Approximately 600 rebates, worth $400 to $1,500 each, will be awarded every month through a random selection drawing. Over 40% of the program funds are reserved for eligible income-qualified applicants who are enrolled in California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE), Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA), or Energy Assistance Program (EAP).

“Expanding affordable access to e-bikes directly advances the Commission’s goals to support a transportation system that is both sustainable and equitable and advances innovation,” according to Tony Tavares, Executive Director of Alameda CTC. “Alameda CTC is proud to deliver on Measure BB’s promise to invest in active transportation and improve quality of life in Alameda County.”

E-bikes are a fun and convenient carbon-free option for commutes, errands, outings, and recreation, officials say. The Ava Bike Electric program helps eligible participants get the right type of e-bike for their needs, whether a standard e-bike, a cargo version, or an adaptive model. Basic instant rebates range from $400 to $900, depending on the type of e-bike. Rebates for income-qualified applicants range from $1,000 to $1,500. The latter participants can also receive a $250 instant rebate for safety equipment such as a helmet, lights, and bike lock.

The program is designed not only to reduce carbon emissions and improve well-being, but also to invest in local businesses. All Ava Bike Electric instant rebates must be redeemed at a participating local bike shop. At launch, the participating Tri-Valley bike shops included Dublin Cyclery and Trek Bicycle of Dublin, Livermore’s Pedego Electric Bikes and Trek Bicycle of Livermore, and Superfly Wheels in Pleasanton.

For more information about the Ava Bike Electric Incentive Program, please visit avaenergy.org/go-electric/e-bikes/bike-electric.

For more information about Ava Community Energy, please visit avaenergy.org.