HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaiian Electric Co. is proposing a plan to make it cheaper for early adopters of electric vehicles to charge up.

The electric utility's program was filed with the state Public Utilities Commission on Wednesday.

The three-year pilot project would be available to 1,000 customers of Oahu, 300 in Maui County and 300 on the Big Island.

Hawaiian Electric Executive Vice President Robbie Alm says the utility wants to send a message to electric vehicle manufacturers that Hawaii is ready for their vehicles, and the islands should be included among the first markets where these cars are available.

The project would offer lower rates to electric vehicle owners who charge up during times when electricity demand is less.

Discounted rates would start Oct. 1.