Save Money While Going Electric: A Guide to EV Charger Installation Incentives in Folsom, CA
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular in California, many Folsom residents are installing Level 2 home EV chargers for convenience and savings. These chargers offer faster charging times, making them the top choice for homeowners.
Understanding Home EV Chargers
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Level 1: Uses a 120-volt outlet, charging slowly at 3–5 miles per hour.
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Level 2: Requires a 240-volt outlet, charging 15–30 miles per hour. Most homeowners opt for Level 2.
Available Financial Incentives for Installation
Several rebates can reduce your EV charger installation costs:
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Federal Tax Credit: Up to $1,200 for EV charger installation at home.
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SMUD Rebate: Up to $1,000 for SMUD customers installing home chargers.
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Folsom Incentives: Local programs can offer additional savings.
Together, these incentives can lower your installation cost by up to $2,200.
Long-Term Savings on EV Charging
Charging at home with SMUD's Time-of-Day rate plan is cheaper than public stations:
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Summer Off-Peak: $0.1505/kWh
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Winter Off-Peak: $0.1215/kWh
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Avoid charging during weekdays between 5-8 PM when rates are highest.
By charging your EV during off-peak hours (after 8 PM), you can save up to 60% on charging costs. For example, charging a Tesla Model 3 from empty to full (75 kWh battery) would cost $11.29 at home, compared to $30 or more at a public station.
EVs also have lower maintenance costs than gas-powered cars, offering further savings. Plus, smart chargers can automatically schedule charging during off-peak hours, maximizing your savings.
Steps to Installation in Folsom
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Electrical Assessment: A licensed electrician will assess if your home’s electrical system supports a Level 2 charger.
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Certified Installer: Hire a certified EV charger installer for safe installation.
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Permits: Folsom requires a permit for EV charger installations, typically handled by your installer.
Maximizing Your Savings
Use SMUD’s Time-of-Use rates for overnight charging at lower costs, and consider investing in a smart charger to schedule charging during the cheapest hours.
Switching to an EV and installing a home charger in Folsom is a smart investment. Take advantage of installation rebates to reduce costs and enjoy the convenience of home charging.
Contact Bear Copper Electric today for expert EV charger installation services in Folsom. Our certified team ensures a smooth installation while helping you maximize savings.