Charging Stations
There are many at-home charging options that make it easier to own an electric vehicle (EV), as well as thousands of public charging stations across New York State and chargers that may be available to you from your employer. Whether you own or rent, charging an EV is convenient, easy, and saves drivers money compared to gas or diesel.
In addition to charging overnight at home, EV drivers can use public chargers while they are parked at work or running errands. Many public chargers are Level 3 “fast chargers,” which can fully recharge an EV in 30-60 minutes.
The most basic charger, often called “Level 1”, is a standard home outlet. Simply plug in the electric car adapter provided by the manufacturer, and your car will recharge in about 8-12 hours (recommend doing this overnight). You also have the option of buying a faster “Level 2” charger for your home, which typically cuts your charging time in half (or faster).
More and more public sites across New York are installing “DC fast” charging stations. DC (or “direct current”) chargers can recharge an EV in about 30 minutes.
Learn More About Charging Stations
Dollars & Sense
- Federal tax credits: Cover 30% of the cost of a charging station, up to $1,000.
- Rebates: Many New York utilities offer rebates on the purchase and installation of EV chargers.
- Incentives: Several utilities also offer incentive programs and lower electricity rates to charge your EV during off-peak demand times (like nighttime charging).
Benefits & Considerations
- Accessibility: Take advantage of the growing network of thousands of public charging stations across New York.
- Convenience: Save time with fewer or no trips to the gas station.
- Savings: The cost of charging an EV with electricity is less than the cost of gas.
- Cleaner: Help your community and New York State drive toward a cleaner future when you switch to an EV.
Questions for Your Dealer
- How much electricity will I need to charge the EV?
- Does my electrical panel need to be upgraded for at home charging?
- Will I need to update my electric service?
- Are there permit and code requirements for installing an EV charger at my home?
- Can you please provide references?
- What warranty or guarantee do you provide for your work?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different options for charging an EV? And how long does it take?
There are three types of EV chargers.
- Level 1 Chargers can be plugged into a standard home outlet. This is the slowest method of charging. They provide around 3-4 miles of range per hour of charging.
- Level 2 Chargers are the most common chargers and can be installed at home. In most cases, they require professional installation by an electrician. They provide around 25 miles of range per hour of charging.
- Level 3 Chargers (DC) are the fastest way to charge. They provide around 100-500+ miles of range per 30 minutes of charging. Only public sites can support DC fast charging.
Will I need to upgrade my electrical panel at home to support an EV charger?
Level 1 charging rarely requires upgrades to electrical panels, as the electricity draw is relatively low. Level 2 charges may require panel upgrades. It’s important to speak to a licensed electrician to determine if your home’s electrical panel needs upgrades.
How much does it cost to charge an EV?
Compared to gasoline-powered cars, EVs are more energy efficient and cost about 50 to 70 percent less to operate per mile.
Where are EV charging stations near me?
There are thousands of public charging stations across NYS. Find a convenient charging station wherever you go.
Car & Driver’s Best EV Chargers
Compare different options for the best at-home electric vehicle charger.
Home EV Charging 101
Learn more about what to know when choosing a charging station for your home.
Find a Public Charging Station
Use this map to plan your trip or find a charging station near you.
Where Charging Stations Fit in Your Path to a Clean, Efficient, and Comfier Home
EV charging stations can be added to the home of any EV driver. Make the most of your upgrades when you start by preparing your home, then explore cleaner, more efficient options.
Get Your Home Ready
Choose Electric Appliances & Equipment
Drive Electric & Go Solar
Get Started with a Free Home Energy Assessment
Save money and reduce your environmental impact both at home and on the road. Work with a NYSERDA participating contractor to find all of the hidden places your home is wasting energy, then get financial incentives to help pay for fixing it.