How to prepare for Plug-in Electric Vehicles
According to the October 2010 issue of "Popular Science" magazine, "mass-market electric cars are mere months away," with the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Volt leading the way. Both will require a 240-volt Level 2 home charging dock that can fully charge their battery packs in four to six hours. Before you buy any Plug-in Electric Vehicle (PEV), familiarize yourself with the equipment, permits and installation required for a home charging dock, as well as its cost, including a federal tax break of up to $2,000 plus possible state incentives. Federal and state governments, electric utilities, PEV car companies and charging dock manufacturers are now ready to help you transition to your first electric car.
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Things You'll Need
- Electric vehicle charging dock
- Installation plans
- Installation permits
- 240-volt Level 2 electric supply
- EV charging electric meter
Instructions
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Find out from the dealer the type and model of home charging dock the PEV manufacturer provides or specifies, and the equipment's electrical requirements. Some manufacturers include the home charging dock in the vehicle's price.
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2
Contact your local electrical utility for information about special, reduced PEV rate schedules. You must take the initiative in signing up for these special electricity rates. The utility will in all likelihood require separate metering for PEV charging. If so, check with your municipal building inspection department to make sure local code allows separate meters in residences.
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Hire a trained, licensed installation contractor to determine if the home has adequate electrical capacity or if you need to add a new electrical service panel to handle the 240-volt, 40-amp Level 2 charging circuit. A service panel upgrade generally is the most costly step in installing charging facilities.
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Choose the best location for the charging equipment. Besides having an electric connection, you will need to ensure a safe, enclosed charging environment. Or, if you choose an outdoor location, you will need to proof the equipment against vandalism and theft. Make sure that the location meets the PEV manufacturer's specifications for safe and correct charging operation.
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Have your contractor draw up precise plans for the 240-volt Level 2 branch circuit and the charging dock installation.
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Take the plans to your local building inspection department and have them checked for compliance with code requirements. Also ask at this time how to obtain the permit and pass the building inspection.
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Obtain the permit and begin installation.
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Arrange for an inspection with the local building inspector when the installation is complete. Make any required changes and get final sign-off. Plug in your new PEV.
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Tips & Warnings
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the cost of a home charging dock installation ranges from $500 to $1,500 if an electrical panel upgrade is not required. If a panel upgrade is needed, the installation cost will be approximately $2,500. These costs do not include the charging dock itself; some PEV manufacturers may include ones with their vehicles. Don't forget about the federal tax credit of 50% (or a maximum of $2,000) when you file your return. Check the Department of Energy's index of state incentive programs for any additional incentives available in your state.
If you live in an apartment building or condominium, ask your landlord or homeowners association before considering an installation. You will jointly need to resolve issues such as who will pay for the installation, who will own the equipment, who will be responsible for permits, for metering issues, and electricity payments.
Do not install the charging dock near explosive material; flammable vapors, liquids and gases; combustible dust or fibers; and materials that ignite spontaneously upon contact with air.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit electric pylons image by itsallgood from Fotolia.com
