Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity in Missouri and across the nation.
In 2023, nearly one in five new car sales were EVs. That same year, Missouri reached a milestone of over 2,000 EV charging ports statewide. By 2030, analysts predict that EVs will account for 53% of all U.S. car sales.
There’s an electric slide sweeping the country, which underscores the importance of charg er accessibility. Anyone considering a plug-in vehicle must carefully weigh their charging options to find the best fit for their needs.
So, if you don’t want to rely on public EV chargers or the sluggish plug that came with your vehicle, this buying guide is for you!
Benefits of Private EV Charging
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has made strides in developing public EV infrastructure, particularly along alternative fuel corridors. As a result, you can find over 3,000 public EV charging ports statewide.
Nevertheless, nothing beats the convenience of an at-home charging station. Having an EV charger installed offers several long-term benefits, not limited to:
- Energy independence: No more searching for stations or waiting around for your recharge. A proper charging station can easily fill your battery overnight, so you can start each day prepared.
- Cost savings: You pay for more than electricity at a public charging station. The manager collects a profit for every kW you use. Having your own private station means only paying for what you need, eventually recouping the initial cost of your charger. Rebates and tax incentives can help turn a profit even faster.
- Time savings: Planning your trips around public charging stations is a burden that most would rather avoid. A home or business charger allows you to refuel in places where you already park for extended periods.
With so much to gain, it’s no wonder that residential property owners are installing chargers faster than ever. Better yet, most of these new installations are DC fast-charging stations, making the recharge market that much faster.
Choosing the Right Charger: The Basics
Before you can buy the best charger for your needs, you have to know the difference between them. Luckily, there are currently only three:
Level 1 Charging (120 V AC)
- Power output: ~1.3–2.4 kW
- Range added: ~3–5 miles (5–8 km) per hour of charging
- Full charge time: 20–40 hours for a full charge, depending on battery size
- Best for: Plug-in hybrids or drivers with short daily commutes
Level 1 chargers are the type most commonly included with a new plug-in vehicle purchase. What they lack in speed, they make up for in convenience, since you can plug them into any standard power outlet.
As the lowest-priced and slowest-paced chargers, drivers should expect to get into the habit of plugging in their vehicles daily for consistent charging.
Level 2 Charging (240 V AC)
- Power output: ~3.3–19.2 kW
- Range added: Adds approximately 10–75 miles of range per hour
Full charge time 4–10 hours for a full charge, depending on battery size and charger power - Best for: Homeowners seeking faster overnight charging; also common in workplaces and public charging stations
- Additional Details: Requires installation of a 240V outlet; compatible with all EVs using the J1772 connector in North America Power Sonic
Level 2 is the cost-effective middle ground and an ideal solution for most residential EV applications.
Its high-output flow makes it a strong choice for locations where drivers can park for several hours.
Most homes are readily fitted with 240 V outlets, making Level 2 chargers compatible with almost as many locations as Level 1 models.
Level 3 (DC Fast Charging)
- Power output: 50–350 kW
- Rapid-charge capability: Adds approximately 60–200+ miles of range in 20–60 minutes
- Full charge time: 20–80% charge in 20–60 minutes, depending on vehicle and charger power
- Best for: Long-distance travel, fleet vehicles, and commercial use
Additional Details: Not suitable for residential installation; commonly found along highways and in commercial areas.
Level 3 chargers achieve significantly faster charging times by using a more energy-efficient direct current (DC) power flow. For reference, a Level 3 charger can output up to 350 kW of power, whereas a Level 2 typically doesn’t exceed 20 kW.
Level 3 offers the fastest charging times at the highest price point, and is best suited for commercial and multi-residential applications where minimizing charging time is essential.
Installation EV Charger Costs: What to Expect
As hinted above, each style of charger provides different performance levels at various price points. Before we estimate your costs, please note that these are only general guidelines.
Your final cost can vary widely depending on several factors (discussed in detail below).
Up-Front Expenses
The two broad categories of costs required in your initial investment are equipment and installation.
Equipment includes batteries, cables, plugs, outlet or panel upgrades, and the charging pedestal. Installation costs can be broken down into materials, labor, permitting, and taxes—all of which vary by local ordinance.
Level 1
Often provided with new vehicles at no additional cost (or purchased new at around $400+), Level 1 chargers typically don’t have special installation or renovation requirements. Simply plug one end into a standard 120 V outlet and the other into your vehicle’s charging port, and you’re in business.
The drawback to this convenience is the low power output (~1 kW). In the rare event you don’t have access to an appropriate outlet, expect to pay a bit more for electrical system upgrades.
Level 2
Level 2 chargers upgrade the power output (~3 – 20 kW), but this is where installation costs kick in.
Level 2 equipment costs range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per charger, depending on the brand and whether it’s WiFi-enabled.
Installation costs depend on your home’s layout and electrical system but often mirror equipment costs. Many homeowners find that Level 2 charging pays off quickly through time savings, increased home convenience, and reliable access to overnight charging. Even better, a number of costs may qualify for federal tax credits and local utility rebates, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket expense.
Our team can help provide a personalized quote based on your home’s setup and local requirements—often helping you make the most of all available incentives. And if you plan to install more chargers over time, some installation costs can be shared across multiple units, adding long-term value.
Level 3 (DC Fast Chargers)
Level 3 chargers offer the fastest charging speeds available, but they come with a much higher price tag. Equipment and installation can each run into the tens of thousands, depending on your site’s setup.
These chargers are most commonly used in commercial settings like fleets, dealerships, and public charging stations, where speed and uptime are critical. For homeowners, Level 3 chargers are generally cost-prohibitive and often not compatible with standard residential electrical systems.
Long-Term Savings
With the painful part behind us, let’s look at the exciting returns your investment in EV charging can deliver.
Fuel savings
The fossil fuel market is a volatile force often used as an indicator of overall economic health. By comparison, the American electric power grid is superior in stability and affordability.
Your actual fuel savings will depend on your vehicle mileage, travel habits, and local gas prices, but studies on the topic help us benchmark a general average.
According to estimates by Kelly Blue Book (KBB), an EV driver in an average U.S. household can expect to pay about $66 for electricity per vehicle charged per month. However, the same driver might spend over $200 for the same charge if using a public station.
For context, the average U.S. driver spends about $114 on gas per month per vehicle.
Maintenance savings
For all their ingenuity, traditional internal combustion engines (ICEs) have many moving parts that operate at high temperatures for extended periods. In short, failures are common, messy, and expensive.
By comparison, EVs are simpler by design, lending to lower long-term maintenance costs and fewer emergency repairs.
A 2020 study (during a strong year for EV sales) found that plug-in vehicles typically halve the driver’s repair and maintenance costs when compared to similar gas-powered cars.
Improved property value
Charging stations are an increasingly sought-after amenity, making them leverage points during sales negotiations. The exact value boost varies widely depending on the installation quality and local market, but studies suggest significant gains.
Factors Affecting EV Charger Costs
As mentioned throughout this buyer guide, EV charger installation costs are highly variable. Significant cost factors include:
- The brand, level, and quality of the charging system you purchase
- Local permitting and inspection regulations
- The electrician you hire for the installation
- Your property’s features and limitations
- The installation complexity
- Distance from the charger to the nearest electrical panel
- Trenching or panel upgrade requirements
- Accessibility of electric lines
Contact Brda Electric for a fast, preliminary quote.
Financing Options for Your EV Charger
Though a Level 1 charger is unlikely to break the bank, Levels 2 and 3 can become expensive upgrades. Thankfully, you don’t have to pay for your electric transition alone!
Rebates and tax incentives at every level of government can help you finance your EV charging equipment and installation costs.
Financing Options by Cost
Your financing options vary depending on the program and the specific cost you’re requesting financing for. Here’s a breakdown of your options by cost:
- Equipment and installation: The two largest line items, equipment and installation costs, make up the bulk of an EV charging investment.
- Both may qualify for federal clean vehicle tax credits of up to $7,500 from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- Both may qualify for the federal EV charger tax credits of up to $1,000 if the installation is at your home residence.
- Both may qualify for financing through home improvement or energy efficiency lending programs (e.g., home equity loans, HELOCs, etc.).
- Many Missouri utilities (e.g., Ameren) and electrical cooperatives offer rebates and financing of up to $500+ for EV charging.
- Permits and inspections: Though essential components of an EV charger installation, these costs typically don’t qualify under programs that incentivize clean energy upgrades. You’ll probably end up footing these costs, but they’re at least the most affordable of the bunch.
- Electrical upgrades: Many properties need to upgrade their electrical systems before installing a charger. The costs of these upgrades may or may not be covered, depending on the terms of your financing program.
Consult with a Brda Electrician to make sure you take advantage of every financing opportunity available for your installation.
Installation Considerations
Now that you know St Louis’ EV charger landscape, it’s time to start visualizing how your charging system will fit into your space.
Evaluating Your Property’s Readiness for an EV Charger
Depending on the property and your chosen charger, the installation may require extensive upgrades or no preparation at all.
Here are the key considerations you need to account for:
- Electrical capacity: EV charging can make for a demanding load on your electrical system. Check the maximum capacity of your electrical panel and carefully estimate your peak energy usage.
- In some cases, an electrical service upgrade may be necessary to accommodate the additional load from an EV charger. Consulting with a professional electrician, like Brda Electric, can help determine if your current system is sufficient or if upgrades are needed.
- Charger location: Choosing the right location for your charger can make or break your experience with it. Residential households often choose the garage for its close proximity to where vehicles are stored and the protection from weather conditions.
- Though EV chargers are designed for weather resistance, you can expect a longer lifespan if kept safe from St. Louis’ storm season.
- Permits: As an electrical installation, adding a Level 2 or 3 EV charger to any St. Louis property requires a permit and inspection by the city. These fees range from $50 – $1,000 based on expected project costs.
- Choose a local electrician—like Brda Electric—to ensure your installation professional is well-versed in St. Louis codes and regulations.
What to Expect During Installation
Depending on your property’s unique needs, installation could be a walk in the park or an intense home upgrade.
Key steps of the installation include:
- Site assessment: Consult a certified electrician to evaluate your home's electrical system and determine the best location for a charger. If you call in a Brda technician, they’ll let you know upfront if any upgrades are needed for a successful installation.
- Equipment install: Once your chosen electrician has the permits required to proceed, the actual installation is relatively quick (typically one to four hours). Do not attempt to install a charger by yourself unless you’re a licensed electrician with the proper permits. It takes an expert to complete the process safely and in adherence with local codes.
- Testing and demonstration: Post-installation, your electrical professional should test the system for functionality and offer a walkthrough to demonstrate safe operation.
Choose an EV charging installer that can manage the full project from end to end to make the process as smooth and affordable as possible. Brda Electric can walk you through from consultation to installation.
Financing Options for Your EV Charger
Though a Level 1 charger is unlikely to break the bank, Levels 2 and 3 can become expensive upgrades. Thankfully, you don’t have to pay for your electric transition alone!
Rebates and tax incentives at every level of government can help you finance your EV charging equipment and installation costs.
Financing Options by Cost
Installing an EV charger may be more affordable than you expect, thanks to a combination of federal tax credits, utility rebates, and Brda’s flexible financing options. Depending on the program and what you're looking to finance, different options may be available. Here's a look at what's possible based on the type of cost:
- Equipment and installation: These are typically the most significant expenses in a residential EV charging setup.
- Both may qualify for federal clean vehicle tax credits of up to $7,500 from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- Both may qualify for the federal EV charger tax credits of up to $1,000 if the installation is at your home residence.
- Both may qualify for financing through home improvement or energy efficiency lending programs (e.g., home equity loans, HELOCs, etc.).
- Many Missouri utilities (e.g., Ameren) and electrical cooperatives offer rebates and financing of up to $500+ for EV charging.
- Brda also offers financing options to help you get started without the stress of a large upfront cost. We’ll work with you to find a payment plan that fits your needs.
- Permits and inspections: Though essential components of an EV charger installation, these costs typically don’t qualify under programs that incentivize clean energy upgrades. You’ll probably end up footing these costs, but they’re at least the most affordable of the bunch.
- Electrical upgrades: Many properties need to upgrade their electrical systems before installing a charger. The costs of these upgrades may or may not be covered, depending on the terms of your financing program.
Need help covering upfront costs?
Brda offers flexible financing options to help make EV charger installation more accessible. Whether you’re looking to cover hardware, installation, or other related costs, we can help you find a solution that fits your budget.
Consult with a Brda Electrician to make sure you take advantage of every financing opportunity available for your installation.
Choosing the Right Installer
Once you’ve worked out the charger you need and how to finance it, you’re finally ready to pick out a unit and an electrician to install it. Consider these features when hiring your electrician to guarantee a positive installation experience.
Proven Track Record of Local Expertise
An electrician’s local reputation says a lot about the quality of their craftsmanship. Brda Electric has served St. Louis residents and businesses for over 35 years, and our experience shows in our reviews! Better than a quality reputation, a locally experienced electrician can help you navigate the nuances of St. Louis laws and building codes.
Experience in Green Energy Solutions
Your EV charging installer should have a proven track record of handling similar projects. While any electrician may be able to work through an installation, only an experienced EV technician can find the most cost- and time-effective charging solution for your needs.
As an Ameren Trade Ally, Brda Electric is officially certified to help customers navigate financial incentives for their installation projects.
Customer Satisfaction and Reviews
An electrician’s reviews say a lot about their professionalism and how well they communicate with customers. Not to toot our own horn, but Brda Electric has built a time-honored reputation for its commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction.
Here are some of our recent 5-star reviews for EV charger installation:
“Russell and Sam showed up prepared and on time. They were able to complete all the work that we had discussed in the initial estimate in a clean and timely manner."
"The Tesla standalone EV charger and controller box work perfectly and have a very clean fit and finish. They also cleaned up their workspace and didn’t leave any trash or scraps lying around. Needless to say I was very happy with the service and would recommend to anyone looking to get any electrical work done.”
Start Your EV Transition with Confidence
Whether you’re taking the EV plunge for the first time or looking to expand your current charging set-up, Brda Electric has the expertise to guide your install to a successful completion.
Professional service, expert guidance, and friendly support are the Brda guarantee.
Contact Brda Electric today for a fast consultation and take the first step toward a cleaner, greener future.
