Level 2 Chargers: The Sweet Spot for Multi-family & Businesses

Electric Vehicle (EV) Chargers are classified as Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3.  Level 1 chargers use a standard 120V plug, and can charge an EV in 24-48 hours.  Level 2 chargers use 240V power, and charge an EV in 4-6 hours.  Level 3 chargers (AKA DC Fast Chargers) use 480V power, and charge an EV in about 30 minutes.

Some EV drivers who charge at home will use a Level 1 charger, since the charger is often included with the EV, and plugs into a standard outlet, so no additional costs are incurred.  At the other end of the scale, Level 3 chargers are very expensive, and require 480V power, which is generally only available for large commercial and industrial sites.  As a result, Level 3 chargers are generally found along highways, with examples being Tesla “Super Chargers,” or Electrify America “Fast Chargers.”  These sites rely on revenue from charging a large number of EVs per day to cover the up-front cost of the chargers.

With Level 1 charging being too slow, and Level 3 chargers being too expensive, that leaves Level 2 chargers as the “sweet spot” for many EV owners.  240V power is available in nearly all homes and businesses in the US, and is typically used for larger appliances like electric dryers, ovens, AC units, etc. Charging times of 4-6 hours mean that you can count on fully charging an EV overnight at home or a motel, or during the day, if charging at work. Level 2 chargers are relatively affordable with costs of $500 – $2,000 depending on charging capacity and features.  Installation costs can vary significantly, depending on the capacity of existing electrical panels, and distance from the panel to the charger location.

Oregon is one of the top states for EV adoption, and the Portland Metro area is recognized as a “hot-spot” for EVs.  Owners of multi-family buildings in the Portland area can attract, and retain, tenants by adding Level 2 chargers.  Similarly, owners and operators of hotels, motels, restaurants, and retail businesses can attract more customers by adding Level 2 EV Chargers.  Also, Level 2 chargers may be a key tool in the effort to get employees back to the office, for commercial building owners.

With our CHAMP program, Lloyd EcoDistrict, and our partner, Conserve Energy, can help you determine what it would take to add EV chargers to your multi-family property or commercial business.  We can also help you identify and qualify for incentives from local utilities and the State of Oregon.