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Equipment & Installation
Whether you’re the proprietor of a small eatery, the office manager of a large corporate entity, or the property manager of an apartment complex, you may be considering incorporating electric vehicle charging into your business. We’re here to help you determine the best solution for your business needs. Read on for the basics about electric cars, charging levels, charging station equipment, and service providers.
Charging Equipment Overview
There are three available levels of charging (or voltages) for charging electric vehicles. Each offers a different charging speed, requires different charging station equipment, and results in different costs. To learn more about electric car types, charging levels, and vendors that can help you get ready to plug in, review the chart below and read Electric Cars 101.
|
|
Voltage |
Time to Full Charge |
Cost Per Charging Unit |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Battery Electric Vehicle |
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle |
||
|
Level I Charging |
120 volts |
12 to 18 hours |
6 to 8 hours |
$10 to $1000 |
|
Level II Charging |
240 volts |
4 to 6 hours |
3 to 4 hours |
$500 to $6000 |
|
DC Fast Charging |
480 volts |
10 to 30 minutes |
5 to 20 minutes |
$25,000 to $60,000 |
Installing Charging Stations
When you have decided to install charging stations, call one of our SCE energy advisors and we’ll help you review your charging plan. We’ll also discuss the installation process and address any considerations that are unique to your business. The equipment and rate options you select will determine what kinds of electrical upgrades will be required. You’ll need an Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) installer or qualified electrician to inspect your business, upgrade your wiring and panel as needed, install your new equipment, and obtain required city permits and inspections. Afterward, we will inspect and, if necessary, upgrade the electrical service equipment that connects your business to the electric grid.
Equipment Types
As you plan for electric car charging, you’ll find a range of equipment available. Some basic models simply enable safe charging, while other types come outfitted with options like credit card-payment technology and programmable timers. In addition to equipment, you’ll find that Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) manufacturers and vendors offer installation, maintenance, and other services for monitoring and managing your energy use and costs. You can find third-party resources to help you choose the right equipment manufacturer on our Tools & Resources page.
Equipment Costs
The cost of charging equipment varies widely by model, and the method of installation depends on your existing infrastructure and the equipment you select. Contact the equipment manufacturer and a qualified electrician for a quote. You may qualify for federal, state and local rebates and incentives to help subsidize your costs.
1This comparison chart for charging units is provided for your general information and is not intended as a recommendation, endorsement or guarantee of any particular charging level, charging unit type or charging unit cost. Charging times presented may vary according to make and model of the vehicle being charged, charging settings and battery state-of-charge. Charging unit costs are estimates based on publicly available information and do not include cost of installation, electrical work or additional equipment and/or services. Estimates valid as of: October 2011.