Electric Vehicle Charging
Learn how to charge your electric vehicle, charging station installation costs for homes and businesses, and where to find public charging.
No more waiting at the gas pump. A major benefit of owning an electric vehicle (EV) is that you can charge it overnight, at home. This is how 90 percent of electric-car charging is done, and it's as easy as plugging in a cell phone. When you do need to charge on the go, you can make use of Vermont’s network of over 500 charging stations (the most per capita in America). There are three levels and several types of chargers—some that require the assistance of an electrician, or even permits to install—so be sure to review your options before you purchase a vehicle or charger.
Charging Your Vehicle At Home
Most electric cars and trucks come with a Level 1 charging cable that you can use in any household socket. Many owners opt to install a dedicated 240-volt Level 2 charger in their garage or parking spot. This often requires the assistance of an electrician, but it allows you to recharge your EV up to ten times faster. Some utilities offer Level 2 chargers for free when you purchase a vehicle. All charging equipment includes built-in safety features so that you can recharge your vehicle indoors or out, no matter the weather. ENERGY STAR certified electric car chargers add to the environmental benefits and cost savings of owning or leasing an EV.
- Most electric vehicles come with a Level 1 charging cable that can be plugged into a regular outlet.
- Most owners opt to install a Level 2 charging station, which recharges up to ten times faster (20-40 miles per hour), and some electric utilities will give you one for free.
- EV charging equipment is safe for indoor and outdoor use.
- Learn more about charging at home at DriveElectricVermont.com.
Installation Cost
As mentioned above, you’ll likely receive a Level 1 charger with your vehicle at no additional cost. But if you opt for a Level 2 charging station, you’ll likely need to pay an electrician to install a dedicated 240-volt circuit. Level 2 charging units typically cost several hundred dollars unless your utility offers them for free. A third option is DC fast charging (DCFC) charging (480 volts), which can charge a vehicle in a matter of minutes. Also known as Level 3, these aren’t for home use, but are a popular choice when traveling longer distances.
There are three levels of charging, each faster than the last:
- Level 1 can be as simple as a regular 120-volt outlet within about 20 feet of where you park your EV.
- Level 2 240 Volt equipment requires a moderate investment and an electrician’s assistance.
- Level 3 is an expensive but fast option that’s best-suited for public charging.
Battery Life of EVs
EV batteries are warranted to last eight to ten years before they need replacing and most EV batteries are expected to last the life of the vehicle. To support long-term battery health manufacturers typically recommend keeping the vehicle charged somewhere between 20-80%. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for details on your specific EV model. And while fast charging is convenient, it can impact battery health over time. Avoid frequent fast charging, especially when it’s very hot.
- Don’t regularly charge to your vehicle’s max capacity: keep the charge somewhere between 20-80%.
- Avoid relying too heavily on fast charging, especially when it’s hot.
- Check your owner’s manual for manufacturers’ recommendations to increase the life of your vehicle.
Public Charging
In the past decade, Vermont’s public EV charging stations have gone from a handful to over 500. You can find Level 2 and Level 3 chargers in almost every corner of the state. A note on charging etiquette: Make sure not to park in a charging space unless you are actively charging. You can use a mobile app to notify you when your car is ready to go. And don’t unplug someone else’s vehicle if they aren’t there unless you have permission—it can set off an alarm or even damage the plug connector.
- Choose from one of over 500 public charging stations across the state.
- View this map or download one of several mobile apps to find a station near you.
- Practice public charging etiquette. Don’t stay parked in the spot if you’re done charging. Most EV manufacturer’s smart phone apps will notify you when your car is done charging.
Installing a Public Charger
For businesses or multifamily property owners, charging stations offer your EV-driving patrons, tenants, and employees a valuable benefit. But installing the right system is critical to ensure that the investment is worthwhile and that you meet people’s needs. The installation process can be complicated, so be sure to check with your town about permits and your electric utility about any additional charges to watch out for. If you’re looking to install a Level 3 fast charger, you may incur costs related to utility demand charges, so be sure to check with your utility before installing. To help recoup these costs, you can charge drivers a fee to charge their vehicles.
- Install an EV charging station to improve customer, tenant, or employee satisfaction.
- Consult with your town and utility about permits and costs.
- Recoup the installation cost by charging a small usage fee.
Setting Up Your Electric Fleet
Adding electric cars, vans, buses, or trucks to your organization’s transportation fleet is an excellent way to save money, while also reducing your carbon footprint. Businesses around the country are making the transition. For example, FedEx has over 8,000 EVs in their fleet and they’re working toward net zero energy by 2040. Your organization can complement fleet electrification with other strategies to foster a more energy-conscious culture. Consider implementing “smart commute” policies like flex scheduling, telecommuting, or a bus subsidy. Or, designate carpool parking spots, install charging stations, promote employee carpooling and vanpooling, or add CarShare VT vehicles.
- Save on transportation costs with more efficient fleet operations.
- Reduce your carbon footprint, promote a sustainable company culture and brand.
- Low-cost, quality-of-life benefits help you recruit and retain employees.
- Get assistance from the team at Drive Electric Vermont.