Electric Vehicle Charging Overview
Imagine never having to stop at a gas station again – and instead, having an unlimited supply of fuel available at home or wherever you normally park. For many electric vehicle (EV) drivers, this is a reality. Battery electric vehicles never need gas, and for short trips, plug–in hybrids might use no gas.
EV charging is simple, cost–effective, clean and convenient, particularly when you are plugged in at home – filling up your car, even while you’re asleep.
There are three categories of electric vehicle (EV) charging: Level 1, Level 2 and DC fast charging. Levels 1 and 2 charging use a universal connector that can be plugged into any EV. DC fast charging uses three different connector systems called CHAdeMO, CCS Combo and Tesla Supercharger.
Although EV drivers primarily charge at home, workplace and public chargers are increasingly available in communities nationwide. Use our EV Charging Station Map to find nearby charging stations.

Level 1 Charging
Level 1 is the slowest method of charging but is sufficient for drivers who charge overnight and travel 30–40 miles per day. Charging cables usually come with a vehicle and plug into a standard 120–volt AC outlet with no equipment installation required. Level 1 charging works well for charging at home, work or anywhere a standard outlet is available – and when you have sufficient time to charge.
Level 1 charging uses a standard J1772 or Tesla connector that can plug into any EV, either directly, or through an adapter.
Level 1 charging adds about 3.5 – 6.5 miles of driving range per hour of charging time.
Level 2 Charging
Level 2 charging is considerably faster, but requires installing a charging station, also known as electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). EVSE requires a dedicated 240–volt or 208–volt electrical circuit, similar to what is required for a clothes dryer or electric range. Level 2 is found at many public and workplace charging stations, but also in many homes. It uses the same standard connector as Level 1 charging, meaning any EV can plug in at any Level 2 charger.
Level 2 charging uses a standard J1772 or Tesla connector that can plug into any EV, either directly, or through an adapter.

Depending on battery type, charger configuration and circuit capacity, Level 2 charging adds about 14 – 35 miles of range per hour of charging time.
DC Fast Charging
DC fast charging, also called quick charging or supercharging, provides the fastest available fill–up. It requires a 480–volt connection, making DC fast charging unsuitable for home use, and not every EV model is equipped for it. Stations offering DC fast charging are found in shopping centers and often along major travel corridors, allowing EV drivers to charge up quickly and take longer trips.
DC fast charging uses CHAdeMO, CCS or Tesla connector systems. Check with your vehicle manufacturer to determine if your car has fast charging capability and what connector systems are compatible with your EV.
Depending on battery type, charger configuration and circuit capacity, DC fast charging can add up to 100 miles of range in about 30 minutes of charging time.
Electric Vehicle Charging Costs
Home Charging CostsThe cost to charge your electric vehicle depends on your vehicle’s battery size and the price of electricity where you live. Most utilities offer time–of–use (TOU) rates that greatly reduce costs associated with charging a vehicle at home by charging during off–peak hours. Contact your utility to find out more. 1
While electricity costs vary greatly, the average cost of electricity in California is about 16.58¢ per kilowatt hour (kWh). 2 At this price point, charging a 40–kWh battery with a 150–mile range would cost about 4.42¢ per mile (or about 6.63 to fully charge). Meanwhile, fueling a 25–mpg gas vehicle at California’s average gas price of 3.11 per gallon 3 would cost about 12.44¢ per mile (or about 18.66 for enough gas to drive approximately 150 miles).
Home charging costs can be offset by hosting your charger on a home charging sharing network. EV drivers can earn money by sharing their home chargers or connect with other hosts to find convenient charging on the go. For more information about how you can earn money by sharing your home charger, please see these popular sharing networks:
Public Charging CostsWhile charging at home is generally preferred, many people also charge their EV at public charging stations. These stations can be free, pay–as–you–go or subscription-based, and are set by networks or property owners. Some vehicle manufacturers, such as Hyundai, Nissan and Tesla also provide complimentary public charging.
One popular public charging network charges members 1.50 per hour to charge on Level 2, and 26¢ per minute for DC fast charging in California. 4 At these rates, charging a 40–kWh battery with a 150–mile range would cost about 8¢ per mile on Level 2, and 9¢ per mile for DC fast charging.
For more information about public charging networks, here are some popular options available in California:
1 A list of utility providers is at https://www.energy.ca.gov/almanac/electricity_data/utilities.html2 https://www.eia.gov/electricity/state3 https://www.energy.gov/articles/egallon-how-much-cheaper-it-drive-electricity4 https://www.evgo.com/charging-plans/
Charging Station Rebates
Rebates for Residential Level 2 Charging StationsMany California utility providers and air districts offer rebates to make home Level 2 charging stations more affordable. Some of the rebates also help to offset the cost of installing the charging station at your home if additional electrical work is required. Find available rebates where you live.
Rebates for Commercial EV Charging StationsProperty owners can take advantage of rebates for installing commercial charging stations for public use. EV charging is a desired amenity for many California drivers and can attract more traffic to your business, improve tenant or employee satisfaction and generate a new revenue stream (fees for charging). Following are incentives that decrease the cost of charger purchases and installation. Visit the websites for more information on program eligibility requirements and funding availability.
Utility Incentives
Air District Incentives
Commercial EV Charger Installation St. Louis
There’s no doubt about it: electric vehicles are the way of the future. The rise of electric car sales has increased the need for EV charging stations nationwide. If you’re considering installing commercial EV chargers for your St. Louis business, look no further than Brda Electric.
At Brda Electric, we specialize in building EV charging stations for any commercial application. Along with building new charging stations from the ground up, we can expand existing EV charging operations without disrupting your business.
Types of Commercial EV Charging Stations
Brda Electric installs all three types of commercial EV charging stations:
Level 1
Chargers use a standard 120V outlet and plug, providing four to five charging miles per hour. Hybrid vehicles’ smaller battery packs are better candidates for Level 1 charging stations than pure battery-powered electric vehicles, as charging time is less.
Level 2
Chargers use a 240V outlet and plug (similar to a residential washer and dryer), providing 12 to 60 charging miles per hour. Level 2 chargers use a 240 volt 40-60 amp circuit. These charging stations accommodate all plug-in pure electric and hybrid vehicles, and are ideal for locations where drivers plan to park for a few hours or more.
Level 3 (DC Fast Charging Stations)
These use a 480V direct-current (DC) plug, requiring industrial grade-electricity and providing an 80% charge in less than 30 minutes. These charging stations are found primarily in on-the-go locations like retail centers, off major highways and EV car charging gas stations. The Tesla Supercharger is a Level 3 charger but only works with the Tesla Model S, providing half a charge in about 20 minutes.
We’re experts when it comes to commercial EV charger installation. Whether you need wall-mount or pedestal EV charging, or assistance with setting up internet connectivity, payment processing and energy monitoring, Brda Electric is here to help.
Benefits of Installing Commercial EV Charging
Adding electric vehicle chargers to your commercial property has wide-ranging benefits. Commercial properties of all kinds are interested in improving visitor and employee satisfaction, along with increasing property values. Adding EV charging stations to offices, schools, retail parking lots, or residences paves the way for growing electric vehicles in our present and future lifestyles.
- Rebates and Incentives Investing in EV charging stations is more affordable than you think. Rebates, tax credits and grants are available to help commercial customers install electric vehicle charging stations. Ameren Missouri’s Charge Ahead program currently offers an incentive available to most Ameren Missouri business customers.- up to 50% of the total project cost. Ameren accepts applications for the program until September 30, 2022, or until funding runs out, whichever comes first. Contact us for more information on Ameren’s Rebate Program.
- Employee Perks Enable your employees to recharge their electric vehicles for their ride home. Onsite charging stations are the new employee perk, providing convenience as well as demonstrating your company’s commitment to renewable energy.
- Residential Charging Stations for Apartments and Condos Apartment and multi-family condominium complexes can charge premium rents for offering EV charging amenities. The ability to recharge at home over searching for a local charging station is a convenience that’s hard to pass up, especially among busy professionals.
- EV Charging Convenience for Retail Stores and Shopping Malls Enable customers to get a “charge” out of shopping again. At your retail properties, customers will enjoy being able to charge their cars while shopping. Malls that offer EV public charging stations will gain in popularity as electric vehicles do.
- Hotels and Resorts A significant concern for EV drivers is the possibility of leaving home without the ability to recharge their cars quickly. Providing this service to your overnight guests puts their minds at ease and encourages longer-distance traveling.
Why Wait? Set Your Business Apart With Commercial EV Charging Stations
Electric vehicles are more popular than ever and show no signs of slowing down. Why put the brakes on your business by not catering to this growing demand? Your customers, employees and associates will thank you for it.
Brda Electric is your go-to source for EV charging station equipment and installation in the St. Louis area. Our experienced team provides EV charging installations on time, on budget, and done right the first time. Future-proof your business by featuring electric vehicle charging technology as part of your company’s success strategy.
Call us today to get started at 636-642-4526.
Why Choose Brda Electric for Your Commercial EV Charger Installation?
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I have several rental properties and I have found that it is very hard to find good electricians at a reasonable price. Not only was Brda reasonable, but they did a beautiful job and did it all very quickly! They were also very respectful of my homes and did not make a mess for me to have to come back and clean up later! 5 Star service
Danielle Velis
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FLUX commercial business charging solutions.
According to the International Energy Agency, the number of EVs on the roads globally will surpass 125 million by 2030 and SP Global estimates that there will need to be 2.13 Million Level 2 Chargers and 172,000 Level 3 Chargers.
Flux offers in house end-to-end high quality installation services from site-assessment to commissioning.

Auto-Dealership Level 3 Supercharging and Level 2 Charging
FLUX provides engineering plans, design, and installation that includes:. Load balancing and calculations- City approval and required permitting- Property Management Solutions
Workplaces, Businesses, and Parking Lots
From office buildings, to hotels, EV charging is more than just convenient. Adding charging stations can increase the property value, provide marketing opportunities, improve visitor and employee satisfaction, and provide an additional revenue stream.
EVSE Payment Solutions
There is potential ROI after installation of charging stations in public settings. Flux provides solutions for both the upfront installation costs, as well as the pay to charge software system including.- 3-10 year Subscription plans with no upfront fees costs Up to 18 month financing options.- Seamless software integration that helps keep track with either employee usage or customer usage.
Fleets
Flux provides seamless fleet solutions for companies that are dedicated to maximizing your companies effeciency, showing commitment to sustainable practices, and creative a positive experience for your employees that are driving the vehicles.
Do you have financing options?
FLUX offers buy now pay later plans through Sunbit with options for 4, 6, 12, and 18 month plans.
Commercial Electrical Vehicle Charger Contractor in Los Angeles
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow and the technology powering their advances, the need for a way to charge these vehicles increases as well. When you need commercial EV charger installation in Los Angeles, our team at Southwest Industrial Electric is prepared to work with you and help you find the perfect solution for your needs. Our commercial electricians are fully licensed and have years of experience installing all types of EV chargers for a variety of businesses.
Whether you have commercial EV chargers that need to be installed on your property, or would like to move an existing charger and have it be reinstalled, we can handle it all and ensure it’s all up to code. Take a look at our client reviews and see why we are the safest and most trusted commercial electric vehicle charger installation contractors in all of Los Angeles.
Your company could have a charging station that is ready to use whenever you need it! Give us a call today at (323) 215-1273 or contact online to get started.
How to Choose the Best EV Charger for Your Business
Just as there are many types of electric vehicles, there are many types of chargers as well. Finding the right charger for you will mean determining what your vehicle needs, as well as what your existing electrical system can handle.
Electric vehicle chargers are broken up into three main categories:
- Level 1 charger: This simple unit is usually included with the purchase of your electric vehicle, and plugs into a standard 120-volt outlet. Depending on the capacity of your vehicle’s battery, it takes around 12 hours to reach a full charge. This is a good option for those who do not spend much time driving, but may not be ideal for those who are more on-the-go – particularly here in Los Angeles.
- Level 2 charger: The next step up allows for much faster charging, with vehicles reaching a full charge in 4-6 hours. However, because they require 240 volts to operate, installing one of these systems may also require you to upgrade your property’s electrical panel.
- Level 3 Charger: The top tier of electric vehicle chargers, also known as a DC Fast Charger, will have your electric vehicle battery topped off in the amazing time of 30 minutes to an hour. The level 3 charger may be unnecessary for most homeowners who drive less than 30 miles a day, but are the perfect fit for businesses that need to keep their electric vehicles operable throughout the day.
Benefits of Installing EV Charging Stations for Your Business
Are you trying to decide whether installing electric vehicle charging stations in your business is a good idea? For starters, charging electrical vehicle fleets is a tremendous business opportunity! It offers an opportunity to lift revenue spent by selling more electric power and charging infrastructure, and by also providing services that support the charging of EVs. It can essentially help fleet operations to decrease costs by using and managing energy in more efficient ways.
Some key benefits to installing commercial EV charging stations include the following:
- May help you earn revenue by taking advantage of state and local incentive programs and rebates.
- May help you decrease overall costs
- Get ahead on an upcoming trend and business opportunity
- Demonstrates leadership and exhibits your commitment to sustainability
- Simplify maintenance (EVs have fewer and less complex parts that may help to lower overall lifetime operation and maintenance costs.
- May motivate customers to stay longer
- Increases your commercial property’s value
- May help to attract a larger array of customers (such as eco-conscious customers or customers driving electrical vehicles)
Contact us today to learn more about the many benefits that come with installing electric vehicle charging stations for your commercial or industrial business today!
How Long Does It Take to Charge a Tesla?
Tesla is one of the most popular electric cars on the market today. With the company constantly innovating and producing newer models, the charging time for each car differs. The 2021 Tesla Model Y takes around 10 hours to charge at 220V. The Model S needs around 96.7 hours. It’s important to check the model and battery type of the Tesla to know for sure how long it will take to charge.
Given the popularity of Teslas, it’s important for businesses to have charging stations that help this car. If you’re interested in installing an EV Charging Station at your business, contact Southwest Industrial Electric today.
Helping Businesses Charge Energy Efficient Cars
No matter what you end up choosing, our team at Southwest Industrial Electric will be here with you every step of the way. We are extensively experienced and can help you ensure that installation is seamless and your electrical system is able to handle the increased load. Contact us today to learn more about cleaner energy solutions, conveniently located.
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Contact us today to learn more about our Los Angeles electric vehicle charging station installation services!