How Does an Electric Car Impact My Electricity Bills?

Every year, electric cars become more popular. Many people have switched or would like to upgrade to an electric car to reduce fuel costs and protect the environment. There are plenty of benefits to owning an electric vehicle, but one common concern is the cost of charging it. While you’ll save money on fuel, you should expect to see an increase in your electricity bill if you switch to an electric vehicle.

Charging Systems

According to the Department of Energy, most electric vehicle drivers do over 80 percent of their car charging at home. You can use either Level 1 or Level 2 EV charger.

• Level 1: This system uses a 120-volt connection, which is a standard household outlet. Charging times are slow. If you have a long commute, your vehicle probably won’t charge enough overnight to get you to work and back.

• Level 2: This system uses a 240-volt connection, the same power source you’d use for a clothes dryer or other major household appliances. Vehicles charge much more quickly with a Level 2 system.

Fuel Costs vs Charging Costs

An electric vehicle requires regular charging, so it will increase your electricity bill. The cost of operating an electric car depends on the vehicle’s make and model, your driving range, and the electricity rate in your city.

Forbes reports that the average cost of fully charging a Tesla Model S is about $13. A study by the University of Michigan found that the average yearly cost of operating an electric vehicle is $485. The same study reports that the average yearly cost of fuel for a gasoline-powered vehicle is $1,117.

To calculate how much you can expect to spend, look up the electricity rates in your city and the mileage per kilowatt-hour of the vehicle you’re interested in.

Bottom line: Electricity is cheaper than gas, making an electric vehicle a smart choice. Solar panels can reduce costs even further to drive home even more savings. If you’re interested in going solar, contact Energy Concepts at (559) 377-7080.