Plug-in electric vehicles need to be plugged into a source of electricity, just like a light or an appliance, to have their batteries charged. There are three industry-standard levels of charging for most passenger plug-in electric vehicles.
Level 1 charging requires access to a standard, grounded, three-prong 120-volt outlet with a ground fault circuit interrupter. Most PHEVs can be fully charged at Level 1 in eight to 10 hours. BEVs can take 12 to 24 hours to become fully charged at Level 1 because of their larger battery size. Level 1 charging has an electric load of 15 to 20 amps; about the same as a large microwave oven.
Level 2 charging requires installation of a 240-volt charging station by a licensed electrician; the load is similar to what is needed for an electric stove or central air conditioning system. Level 2 charging will typically charge an EV in about half the time it takes to charge at Level 1. This type of station may require upgrades to the home’s electrical service. It is recommended that you contact Pepco before installation to verify that local distribution facilities are adequate to serve this additional electrical load.
While the home is likely to be the primary charging location for most EVs, public charging stations are also available for charging on the road. The number and availability of public stations continues to grow. Find Charging Locations.
The cost of charging an EV is different for everyone and will depend on several factors such as the type of EV, the size of your vehicle's battery, your electricity rate, and the distance you drive. You will be billed at Pepco's current price per kilowatt hour, or the price per kilowatt hour of your competitive supplier, plus Pepco's delivery charges.
