One of the main benefits of going electric is having the ability to turn your home into your very own “refueling” station. Recent studies have shown that more than 80% of EV owners charge at home. Starting the day with a fully charged battery and having access to lower-cost electricity rates are among the most important benefits of home charging.
While occasional drivers might get by with basic charging cables, investing in a 240V (Level 2) home charging station makes charging at home faster, more convenient, and more affordable.
The cost benefits of installing Level 2 home EV charging go beyond cheaper electricity rates. Depending on location, EV owners can benefit from incentive programs designed to lower the cost of purchasing and installing new EV charging equipment in their homes.
U.S. Federal EV Equipment Tax Credit
Available nationwide, most consumers are eligible for this tax credit, which covers 30% of the cost of purchase and installation of new EV charging equipment, up to $1,000. See IRS Form 8911.
Regional EV Equipment Incentives
EV owners may be eligible for additional incentives and rebate programs that can further offset the cost of purchasing and installing EV charging equipment at home. With an average of around $500 per incentive, consumers can significantly reduce the cost of their investment.
The U.S. Department of Energy maintains a database of state, regional, and utility-sponsored rebate and tax credit programs where you can search for incentives in your area: https://afdc.energy.gov/laws/search. Programs change regularly, so be sure to carefully research those programs available in your area for the latest status and information on these programs.
Example: Los Angeles, California
The greater Los Angeles area is one of the best regions in the nation for consumers looking to install EV charging equipment at home:
- South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) (Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties): For residents in these counties not covered by one of the following city-specific programs. EV owners can claim for a rebate on new EV charging equipment up to $250
- Anaheim: Up to $1,000 for equipment, plus up to $2,000 for upgrade expenses depending on program participation
- Burbank: Up to $500
- Colton: Up to $500
- Glendale: Up to $500
- Los Angeles (LADWP): Up to $500
- Pasadena (PDWP): $600
Pulsar Plus: Rebate Eligible
Many regional incentive programs have equipment requirements for rebate eligibility. The Wallbox Pulsar Plus is UL listed, has Wi-Fi connectivity, and comes with a standard SAE J1772 connector, making it eligible for most rebate programs. For utilities that require chargers be OCPP-enabled for managed time of use programs, please contact Wallbox North America Customer Service for more information.
FAQ
Why should I invest in installing Level 2 charging at home? Can’t I just use the Level 1 charge cable that came with my EV?
While occasional drivers might get by with Level 1 (120V) charging cables, these can take days to fully recharge your vehicle’s battery, inefficiently drawing power during times of peak electrical rates. Using a Level 2 charger is faster and more efficient. Plus, many utilities offer customers reduced ‘Time of Use’ rates for Level 2 charging during specified hours. The benefits of installing Level 2 home EV charging far exceed the cost of equipment and installation, and with incentives, you can offset that cost even further.
