With 80% of all electric vehicle (EV) charging taking place at home, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to make the most of your charging experience.
Before anything else, decide how you will charge at home. Your new electric vehicle will already come with a small, portable 120-volt charging unit that can be used with a common household outlet. And this may be all you need, depending on the size of your EV’s battery, the number of miles you drive daily, and the amount of time you feel you have to “charge back up” at the end of the day.
Your new EV will also be capable of charging at 240 volts. If you feel that 240-volt charging would better serve your needs, determine the type and model of charging station your EV manufacturer provides or specifies, and that equipment’s electrical requirements. More than likely, a number of options will be available.
A quick survey by an electrical contractor can determine if your home has adequate electrical capacity for electric vehicle charging.
Depending on the size and age of the home, there may not be sufficient electrical capacity to handle this, meaning a new electric service panel may have to be added. The initial survey can determine if such an upgrade - generally the most costly step in installing charging facilities - is necessary.
If installing in an enclosed garage:
The wall socket or charging station should be located for easy access and where the charging cable will stretch the shortest distance - so check the location of the charging port on the vehicle too! Avoid locations where the cord or cable crosses an area of heavy foot traffic. A wall-mounted charging station should not block a garage entry or exit, or be installed near explosive materials like flammable liquids or combustible dust or fibers.
For a detached garage with inadequate capacity or no electric service at all:
The installer should be able to help you decide how to extend the wiring to accommodate charging equipment. An overhead wiring extension is less expensive but less attractive, while an underground extension represents a more attractive (and more expensive) option.
For charging outside:
Electrical sockets and charging stations are weatherproof and can be placed outdoors. They should be protected from damage and installed in a secure location to protect against vandalism. Be sure to check the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended operating and charging temperature ranges and locate the equipment accordingly.
Apply for the permit to do the desired work, if required by local jurisdictions. If applicable, your contractor can begin work when it is issued. When the installation is complete, your contractor can also arrange for the wiring inspection with the local inspection authority (if needed) and make any required changes.
To find an installer, visit the ICC Entity Search tool. Leave the Entity Name blank, select "Electric Vehicle Charging Stations" for a list of certified installers.
The steps above will ensure your home is ready, but there is the "other side of the meter" to consider as well, and this is where Ameren comes in. Our contribution as customers transition to electric vehicle ownership is to manage grid efficiency and offer programs to make transportation easier.
The Ameren Illinois ChargeSmart Program is for Ameren Illinois residential customers who drive an EV and charge their vehicle at home. Plug in during the preferred time and save on electric delivery fees while you charge. You can enroll online or contact us for more information.