Charging Options for Your Electric Vehicle
August 10, 2021
On average, U.S. car owners drive about 31 miles a day—a range that newer electric vehicles (EVs) can meet several times over on a single charge. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, over 80% of EV charging happens at home, where EV owners have set up their own chargers. Many drivers also fill up their batteries at their workplaces. As your energy provider, we want you to be comfortable and confident in knowing your options when it comes to charging your EV.
The first thing to know is that there are three common EV charging structures: Level One, Level Two, and DC Fast Chargers — commercial type of structure that currently provides the quickest charge.
Level One Charging
Level One is the most basic charging level. If you choose this option, your EV will typically include an adapter that plugs into a typical 120-volt outlet. This is the easiest and cheapest charging solution, but it will take much longer to charge your EV.
Level Two Charging
Level Two is about three to five times faster than Level One, but this level of charging often requires separate purchases and installation. The EV is plugged into a 240-volt outlet, which is used for larger appliances, like a clothes dryer. Most homes do not include a 240-volt outlet in garages, so the outlet must be installed by a licensed professional. You typically see Level Two charging stations at shopping malls, office buildings, and multi-family community spaces.
DC Fast Charging
DC Fast Charge stations are typically seen near high-traffic public areas, like gas stations or hotels. This is the fastest charging level, with the ability to charge an EV at 80% in approximately 30 minutes. As EVs continue to become more popular, you can expect to see more DC Fast Charge stations throughout North Carolina, which helps provide drivers a peace of mind during travel.
EV charging creates additional energy demand. The total charge time of an EV will depend on how much the battery is depleted, and can also vary based on the battery type used by the different vehicle manufacturers. The time of day you charge your EV can have an impact on the grid and your monthly energy costs. If you’re charging an EV at home, please contact one of our energy specialists at 704-289-3145. By letting us know about your EV charging levels, we can help ensure your home is prepared for the additional energy consumption, and you can take advantage of our EV resources.
