For installation of a 240-volt charging station (recommended), the cost can range from $550 to $3,500 depending on details like voltage and amperage, materials, charging station location and the charging station itself. 

For example, the distance of your charging station from your electrical panel can affect installation cost.  While most in the Illinois/Wisconsin area will prefer an indoor installation, there are times when an outdoor station would be preferable.  An outdoor installation will require special equipment and will come at a higher price point.  These are all factors to take into consideration.

A level 1 charger is the factory grade cable that comes with your vehicle at the time of purchase.  It can be plugged into a traditional 120-volt outlet and delivers 1.4 kW, known as a “trickle charge”.  Because of this, it does take longer to charge your vehicle with a level 1 charging station (11 – 20 hours on average for a full-charge).

A level 2 charger is an upgraded charging station and is installed at the EV owner’s expense.  It can be installed in your garage or outdoors and has a 240-volt connection.  As such, it speeds up charge time considerably (an average of 3 – 8 hours for a full-charge) and gives you a longer drive range.  This is the charge station installation we recommend.

A level 2 charging station is what we recommend.  It is ideal for those who commute and/or don’t want to use a public charging station where the cost of the electricity is much higher. 

This upgrade offers substantially faster charging times and may come with perks like WiFi and smartphone compatibility.  And with the rise of EV popularity, having an electric vehicle charging station installed will considerably increase the desirability and resale value of your home.

This will depend on the charging station you have chosen to install. For simplicity, let’s assume you have a vehicle with a 100 mile battery capacity.

For a factory grade level 1 charging station (120-volt and 20-amp circuit), it can take up to 25 hours to charge your electric vehicle.

With an upgraded level 2 EV charging station (240-volt and 40-amp circuit), the charging time can be as low as 4 to 5 hours.

It doesn’t have to!  By switching to solar energy, you can protect yourself from rising energy costs and charge your electric car at no extra expense after installation.  If you already have an electric vehicle or are considering getting one, we can size a solar system for your needs.  We have done more residential installations than any other company in the Stateline!

If using standard utilities, then yes you can expect an increase in your electric consumption and therefore your electric bill.  But when you consider the savings in fuel, as well as the rebates and discounts available for those choosing a more environmentally-friendly option for travel, the savings can completely offset the cost.