Thinking about buying your first electric vehicle (EV), installing a charger at home or adding EV charging at your business? You probably have questions about charging time, costs, incentives and what installation involves. We’re here to help you understand what to expect before you go electric.
This National Drive Electric Month, we’re also taking a look at how electric transportation has grown in New Jersey and the role PSE&G and our customers are playing in supporting that growth.
Since launching our EV Charging Program in 2021, we’ve helped make EV charging more accessible in New Jersey, energizing more than 34,000 EV chargers at homes, businesses and public locations across the state. What started as an ambitious new program has grown into one of the largest utility-led EV initiatives in the country. And we’re continuing to prepare the grid to support more drivers and businesses as they go electric.
Our EV team has spent the past several years working directly with customers, businesses and other partners to help get charging projects up and running. Along the way, we’ve helped customers understand their charging options, navigate installation and electrical upgrades and find programs and incentives that can make EV ownership more affordable.
Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often from residential and business customers considering EVs and EV charging.
What should I know about going electric at home?
1. How long does it take to charge an EV?
Charging time depends on your vehicle’s battery size, how much charge is left when you plug in and the type of charger you use.
Most residential PSE&G customers who own an EV charge at home overnight using a Level 2 charger. Depending on the vehicle, a Level 2 charger typically adds about 20 to 40 miles of driving range per hour of charging, so many drivers start each day with a full battery.
If you’re on the road, public Direct Current Fast Chargers (DCFC) can recharge many EVs from about 20% to 80% in as little as 20 to 40 minutes.
2. Are EVs more expensive than gas-powered vehicles?
Some EVs cost more upfront than similar gasoline-powered vehicles, but prices have become much more competitive in recent years. When comparing vehicles, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership, not just the purchase price.
Electricity is often less expensive than gasoline, and EVs generally require less routine maintenance. And depending on eligibility, state and utility incentives may also help lower the overall cost of ownership.
3. What does it cost to install an EV charger at home?
Installation costs vary based on your home’s electrical system, where the charger will be installed and whether electrical upgrades are needed.
Eligible customers may qualify for incentives through our EV Charging Program to help offset certain installation costs. A licensed electrician can evaluate your home and provide an estimate.
4. How much does it cost to charge an EV at home? Is public charging more cost effective?
Charging at home is often the most affordable way to power your EV.
Your cost depends on your electric rate and your vehicle’s battery size. Public charging costs vary by provider, charging speed and location, with DCFC charging typically costing more than at-home charging.
Customers can also save by charging during off-peak hours when electricity demand on the grid is lower. You can learn more about off-peak charging through our Residential EV Charging Program and explore whether our Time of Use (TOU) electric rate may benefit you based on your schedule and energy use habits at pseg.com/TOU.
5. What happens if I run out of charge?
Running out of battery power is similar to running out of gasoline. If you can’t reach a charging station, you’ll likely need roadside assistance.
Most EVs display your remaining driving range and can help you find nearby charging stations using built-in navigation or mobile apps. Planning ahead and charging before your battery gets too low can help you avoid running out of power.
6. Are there incentives available beyond PSE&G’s programs?
Yes, you may qualify for New Jersey state incentives, in addition to our EV Charging Program, that may help lower the cost of purchasing or leasing an eligible EV or installing a home charger.
Incentive programs can change over time, so be sure to check the latest New Jersey and federal incentive information before purchasing an EV or installing charging equipment.
What should I know before adding EV charging at my business?
1. Can I install both Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers at my business?
Yes, many businesses install a combination of Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers to meet different customer and operational needs. The right mix depends on how long vehicles stay parked, your available electrical capacity and your business goals.
If you’re considering installing EV charging, we can help eligible customers understand available programs before work begins. Learn more about our Commercial EV Charging Program.
2. What factors should I consider when setting pricing for public EV charging?
Every business has different goals. Some offer charging as a customer or employee amenity, while others choose to recover a portion of their operating costs.
When developing a pricing strategy, consider electricity costs, equipment maintenance, local market conditions and the overall experience you want to provide. Because every business is different, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
3. How will EV charging affect my monthly electric bill?
Installing EV chargers will increase your electricity use, but the impact depends on how many chargers you install, how often they’re used and when charging occurs.
Connecting with us early in the planning process can help you better understand your expected energy needs, available electrical capacity and whether any upgrades may be required.
4. How many EV chargers does my business need?
The answer depends on your customers, employees or fleet vehicles, as well as how long vehicles typically remain parked.
It’s also a good idea to plan for future growth. Planning for tomorrow’s charging needs today can help minimize future construction costs and business disruptions.
5. What are the benefits of offering EV charging at my business?
For many businesses, EV charging can be a valuable amenity. Offering charging provides added convenience for customers and supports employees who drive electric vehicles. It can also support your organization’s sustainability goals.
6. What should I consider before installing EV chargers?
Before installing charging equipment, think beyond where the chargers will be located. Consider your property’s electrical capacity, accessibility, future expansion plans, maintenance responsibilities and who will use the chargers.
Speaking with us early in the planning process can help you understand available programs and identify the best approach for your property.
Ready to take the next step toward going electric?
Whether you’re considering your first EV, installing a charger at home or planning charging for your business, we can help you understand your options and find resources to get started.
Explore our EV Charging Program to find information for residential and business customers, available incentives and charging resources.
Have questions about your project? Contact our EV Team at PSEG-Electric.Vehicles@pseg.com or 1-800-249-1837, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.