There are many reasons drivers make the switch to electric vehicles. EVs are fun and safe to ride and drive, can save you money, and promote cleaner air quality. Plus, with the increasing number of EV charging stations, range anxiety is becoming a thing of the past! Below you’ll find helpful information and resources to take the next steps toward an EV future
Plugging in your EV is as simple as it sounds. See the chart below to decide which option is best for you:
https://ev.xcelenergy.com/charging-101
At-Home Charging
Most EV owners re-charge with a Level 1 or a Level 2 charger at home. Level 1 uses a standard outlet, so you can start charging right away if there is an outlet near your parking area. Level 2 chargers may require an electrician and usually require a building permit to install. Some newer homes are being built to support EV charging, either by including the pre-wiring to support a 240-volt outlet, or even by installing a 240-volt outlet in the garage or home exterior. It’s important to choose an electrician who is licensed, insured, and knowledgeable about the charging equipment. Visit the Home Charging Advisor to learn more about home charging.
Multifamily Charging
If you live in an apartment or condo, ask your property management company to explore EV charging station programs from Xcel Energy. You can also view Electric Vehicle Charging Resources for Businesses and Multifamily Property Owners.
Public Charging Worried about finding a charger? Websites and apps like Plugshare, can help you conveniently locate charging stations, leave reviews, and connect with other plug-in vehicle owners.
Additionally, the City of Westminster has installed multiple EV charging stations throughout the City. Residents and visitors can charge their electric vehicles for up to four hours at the following locations or can find other options for charging on the go by using the station locator below.
Electric vehicle charging is currently available free of charge for users with a ChargePoint membership. This policy is subject to change to address customer demand and station availability. Visit ChargePoint for more information on charging fees and creating an account.
Steps to Purchasing an EV
There are many charging options for your business or multifamily property. Some key considerations include:
Consider reaching out to Colorado Energy Office or Xcel Energy for advisory services as you walk through these steps.
Types of Charging
Payment Options Once you select your EV charging equipment provider, you can work with them to select different payment structures like free charging, charge by electricity use, charge by time, or charge by a flat rate .
Financial Resources and Rebates
Benefits of electrifying your fleet:
Financial Incentives: You may be eligible for federal and state tax credits, as well as state grants to help offset your transition to EVs. Resources include:
Learn more about resources and information on Xcel Energy’s Business Services EV Solutions page.
Check Out "EV CO"
If you're looking to reap the benefits of riving electric and installing your own efficient EV charger, here are some key tips to keep in mind:
1. Find out which type of charger best suits your needs: To determine what type of charger is right for you, you’ll need to consider how many miles you drive daily as well as whether your vehicle is fully electric or a gas and electric hybrid. If you have a plug-in hybrid car that only goes roughly 15-30 miles on pure electricity, you can rely on a standard 120V outlet and won’t need to upgrade your electrical panel as these cars can be served by a charger (provided with the car) that plugs directly into a standard electrical outlet. Fully electric vehicles, however, have large batteries and ranges of 100-400 miles and require a more powerful, 240V charger. These provide much faster charging and will allow for daily use of your EV, without worrying about running out of charge. Look for an ENERGY STAR certified EV charger to maximize your savings
2. Make sure your home is electric ready: If you’re looking to charge your vehicle at home, you’ll want to make sure your home is electric ready and able to handle the new electrical demands from charging your EV. The extent of the electric upgrades your home might need varies depending on your circumstances, but getting ahead of the game and upgrading your electric panel and making sure you have the necessary wiring will prepare you to install an efficient EV charger at home.
3. Take advantage of incentives to lower costs: Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, there are lots of incentives to take advantage of that will help lower the cost of driving electric. Whether you need to upgrade your home’s electric panel, install an energy-efficient EV charger, or save on purchasing an electric vehicle, there are multiple incentives you can take advantage of that will make driving electric more affordable.
Drive Clean Colorado is dedicated to helping you make decisions that bring about cleaner air in Colorado through a variety of clean transportation and efficient mobility choices like electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and connected mobility. Learn about how to get involved, events, and more here!
The City of Westminster promotes and encourages the use of electric vehicles. In 2020, Westminster developed its first EV Action Plan through Xcel Energy Partners in Energy. The plan outlines a goal to improve air quality through EV adoption by cost-effectively electrifying the City’s fleet, increasing public charging, and encouraging private adoption.
View the full plan here
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