Duke Energy NC rolls out program to lower EV charging infrastructure costs
Duke Energy has launched a new initiative in North Carolina called the Charger Prep Credit program, which is designed to help customers cover the cost of EV charging infrastructure.
The program, announced during National Drive Electric Week, provides a credit for residential or commercial customers in the state who install Level 2 or higher-powered chargers. The one-time credit would cover electrical upgrades for EV charging infrastructure up to $1,133 per household.
“EVs and zero-carbon transportation should be accessible to everyone, so Duke Energy is helping remove financial barriers to EVs for our North Carolina customers and simplifying the process to go electric,” Stephen De May, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president, said. “Steps like this, in addition to key grid infrastructure investments we’re making in support of EVs, will support North Carolina’s Clean Transportation Plan and help meet state emissions reduction goals.”
Upgrades covered by the credit include the installation of wiring and other upgrades that support EV charging – such as new electric plug-in outlets for a garage or other electrical wiring improvements. However, it would exclude the cost of the charging station hardware and software. Both residential and non-residential customers can choose their own contractors to perform the improvements.
EV chargers come in three different levels – Level 1, Level 2 and DC Fast (DCFC). While EVs can be charged with regular household outlets (Level 1) for the typical daily commute, many EV drivers choose to install a faster 220- to 240-volt (Level 2) outlet. An electrician can assess whether an electrical panel has capacity for a Level 2 charger and if upgrades are needed. Most businesses or commercial entities choose to install either Level 2 or DCFC chargers. Also, customers should know that chargers over 40 amps need to be hardwired and cannot use a dryer plug.
The rollout of the program coincides with National Drive Electric Week, which runs from Sept. 23 through Oct. 2. National Drive Electric Week is a nationwide celebration to raise awareness of the many benefits of all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles and educate consumers about the benefits of EVs.
“Duke Energy is investing in an electric future, a modernized power grid, and delivering innovative and reliable energy solutions for our customers as we support the growing U.S. adoption of EVs,” Cory Gordon, Duke Energy’s director of transportation electrification, said. “We will continue to work with stakeholders and other interested parties to actively pursue near-term programs that benefit all Duke Energy customers and make a meaningful environmental impact.”
