Charging your EV

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Vehicle charging is an important part of owning an electric car. Here's where you can find out more about how charging works, potential electrical upgrades for level 2 charging, and the best times to charge your vehicle.

Level 1 (120V/15A)

A typical outlet (120 volt) provides a Level 1 charge. On one end of the cord is a standard three-prong household plug and on the other end is a connector, which plugs into the vehicle.

Depending on the vehicle and battery size, level 1 charging can take 8 to 12 hours for a full charge.

Level 2 (240V/30-70A)

With a 240-volt connection for Level 2 charging, you can recharge in 3 to 6 hours.

Charging an EV using 240 volts is similar to adding a large appliance such as a clothes dryer. This might require upgrading your electrical service (cost varies).

DC Fast Charging

These charging stations can recharge an EV in 30-60 minutes. This option is available for workplace charging, along traffic corridors and at public stations in Oregon and other areas. There are different types of connectors for charging: CHAdeMO, SAE J1772 or Tesla Supercharger.

Charging Type	Voltage	Time to Charge (Battery EV)	Time to Charge (Plug-in Hybrid EV)
Level 1	120 volts	8 to 15 hours	6 to 10 hours
Level 2	240 volts	3 to 6 hours	1 to 4 hours
DC Fast Charging	480 volts	30 to 60 minutes	10 to 15 minutes

Note: Charging time may vary based on vehicle make and model, battery size and state of charge.

Electrical upgrades may be necessary for home charging

Depending on the charging option, an upgrade to your home’s electrical system may be required. We can help guide you through this process.

Step 1: Check with the auto manufacturer or dealer on vehicle charging requirements.

Step 2: Determine if the vehicle you intend to purchase requires an upgrade to your home's electrical panel and wiring.

Step 3: Contact a licensed electrician for consultation on your home's electrical needs and upgrades. Permits also may be required. (See the next tab for guidelines and specifications.)

Vehicle charging equipment installation costs can vary greatly depending on the configuration of your home's electrical circuits, local code requirements and the type of equipment installed. Permits may be required prior to installation or construction. The local building and safety department should be consulted to determine specific requirements. If an electrical contractor is hired to perform the work, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate permits are obtained.

Step 4: If your electrician requires upgrades to your utility service, please contact us toll free at 1-888-221-7070 and request the service upgrade. If upgrades are needed to the infrastructure serving your home or neighborhood, we will make the necessary upgrades as quickly and efficiently as possible. If permits or inspections are required, you will be responsible for ensuring the work is in compliance with all federal, state and local codes.

Guidelines and specifications for electric vehicle charging home upgrades

	Level 1	Level 2
Is an upgrade necessary?	Uses a typical 120-volt household outlet so upgrades to your home's electrical panel may not be necessary.	Charge requires 240 volts so this will likely require upgrades to your home's electrical panel and the addition of a new circuit similar to one for an air conditioner or electric dryer. Contact a licensed electrician to provide a cost estimate and perform the work.
National Electric Code requirements	20-amp single-pole breaker Ground fault circuit interrupter Protected wall-mounted receptacle for 120-volt charging	40-amp, two-pole breaker is required. Charging equipment should be wired permanently to the electrical supply circuit. Equipment may vary in design but must meet specifications set forth in the NEC. These specifications include equipment that is listed and labeled, ground fault protection, diagnostic capability to prohibit charging from taking place when the batteries or the vehicle is damaged or an unsafe condition exists; and an interlock that de-energizes the charging cable when the vehicle is disconnected from the charging equipment, or if excessive strain is placed on the cable/cord.

Best times for electric vehicle charging

As more drivers make the switch to EVs, it’s important to understand when to charge your vehicle to have less impact on the environment and the energy grid. Energy prices are typically highest during the late afternoon and evening, which can result in increased electricity prices for everyone since electrical infrastructure must be built to provide power when energy use is highest. If possible, avoid charging during times when demand for electricity is highest.

Generally, the best times to charge your vehicle are during off-peak hours:

During the middle of the day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. when solar energy is abundant.
Overnight when the demand for electricity is lower – after 10 p.m. is best.

Choices and recommendations for savings:

Set your vehicle’s time scheduling function to charge your car during off-peak times.
Choose a Time of Use pricing plan to help save on your bills when you charge your car and use other home equipment during off-peak hours.
Enroll in our Blue Sky renewable energy program to help offset your energy use.