EV Technology & Charging
If you have an EV or are planning on purchasing one soon, let us help you plan your solar installation its use. We can tell you what to expect with your EV charging and we can help you size your system based on your driving habits and model of car purchase. A hardwired high output Level 2 charger can be installed in your garage or carport as part of your solar system. Make this investment now so you are ready for the future.
Tax credits are based on the battery size and go up to $7,500 for customers who purchase an Electric Vehicle, but they won’t last forever. Utilities and automobile manufacturers are also offering incentives for choosing their models. More and more manufacturers are introducing EVs, so there is no limit of choices on the market! Another benefit is adding charging will also increase the value of your home. A win all around!
Understanding Charging
Level 1 (trickle) charging typically takes 15 hours to fully charge an EV. That means that owners may need to charge during peak usage times or feel compelled to ‘top off’ using public charging stations to avoid range anxiety — expensive alternatives! But what if you could get a Level 2 charger installed at no charge when we install solar for your home?
Level 1 Chargers
These typically come with your car and are able to be used with your home electric outlets.
Pros
-
- Easily adaptable, use with a standard 110 outlet
-
- Easy to transport to allow remote charging
Cons
-
- Typical charging time for full charge is 15 hours
-
- Most basic charge system with no interface
-
- No ability to select charge cycle to avoid top peak usage
Power Up Your Home Charging
Level 2 Chargers
The charging time is reduced by more than 60% and allows owners to charge at the speed of a public charger conveniently at your own home.
Pros
-
- Quality chargers will fully charge an EV in 3 – 4 hours.
-
- Plug in models can share an outlet with a range or dryer
-
- Most have mobile apps to monitor or configuration charging
-
- Ownership yields lower cost of charging versus public charging station
-
- Peace of mind allowing EV owners to maintain full capacity for the most range
Cons
-
- Increased energy demand on your home
-
- Require a 240v electrical outlet or hardwired, plus a dedicated, dual-pole breaker
-
- Expense for installation – Licensed electrician needed to install new outlet or hardwiring
-
- If demand charges are in place, the higher current draw may increase energy costs
The Future Of Charging
Level 3 Chargers
The cream of the crop! These are the leading edge of the charging technology.
Pros
-
- The fastest charge times available. Approximately 80% of range achieved in 40 minutes
-
- In the future: Bi-directional energy flow – allows direct DC connection between EV battery and the home in case of power outage. Your EV helps keeps your home powered!
-
- Highest degree of integration to the grid for both the user and the energy provider
Cons
-
- Typically only available commercially
-
- Extremely expensive
-
- Very new technology — early adopter status for buyers
-
- Currently AJH (City regulation) is unfamiliar – delays installers plan approvals. (This will improve as technology matures)
