EV Business Charging Ahead with LADWP EV Rebates

Ready to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for your employees or customers? Read on for information about our commercial EV charging program’s new open enrollment period and answers to key questions to ask before you begin installation.

What rebates are available from LADWP?

Our Commercial EV Charging Station Rebate Program offers rebates toward the costs of purchasing and installing EV charging stations. Commercial customers may receive up to $5,000 per Level 2 charging station and up to $100,000 per DC fast charger for light-duty vehicles. Additional rebates are available for charging medium- and heavy-duty fleet vehicles.

From February 20 to March 1, 2024, the Commercial EV Charging Station Rebate Program will open enrollment for Level 2 and DC fast chargers, with the higher rebate amounts provided to businesses installing chargers in disadvantaged communities. During this enrollment period, customers can submit applications for rebates for chargers installed on or after June 1, 2022. The program is also currently accepting applications for MDHD charging stations. To learn more about the rebates available, the upcoming enrollment period, and how to apply, please visit the program webpage.

What type of charging does your business need?

This depends on the user and application, as well as the time they require to charge.

•    Level 1, the slowest charging station, is best for staff who only need a partial vehicle charge by the end of the work day, although many plug-in hybrids can charge in five to six hours at Level 1 chargers. This type will probably require more chargers and more dedicated parking spaces. It is also a good option for long-term parking, such as at airports.
•    Level 2 charging is probably the best solution for customers because most only need to top off their battery. It's also more attractive if charging is offered for free. Level 2 is recommended in situations where employees typically don't leave the office and vehicles can take several hours to charge.
•    DC Fast Charging (aka Level 3) charging is much much more expensive to install. It's better to offer it as a paid service until market demand increases. For staff who are continuously on the road, DC Fast Charging is recommended.

If you provide charging for both customers and staff, a hybrid solution may be best. Consult with an expert to help you pick the right solution.

How much does a charging station cost?

Costs vary depending on type of charger, application, location and distance from the installation point to the breaker or service panel. Total costs (equipment, parts and labor) typically range from:
•    Level 1: $100 to $300
•    Level 2: $4,000 (garage) to $9,000 (curbside)
•    DC Fast Charging: $20,000 to $75,000

Costs will increase if additional electrical infrastructure is required. DC fast charging requires 480-volt service, which calls for a nearby three-phase power source and a step-down transformer. Operating costs depend on the price of electricity and other factors. Most prices are set at the state level.

How many charging stations should your business install?

Each situation is different. Research the market to determine customer interest and evaluate your company's current and future needs. A staff survey is a good starting point to gauge employee interest. Take into account any existing and upcoming regulations, including building codes and local utility requirements. Plan for growth and install additional electrical conduits for future stations.

How do you apply for electric service for your EV charging stations?

New charging stations may significantly increase the electric demand of your site on the grid. As such, LADWP needs to ensure that the utility infrastructure (e.g., transformers, service lines) serving your site is adequately sized to avoid any service issues. Customers can submit a request to LADWP’s EV Service Design Group to review charging station project plans online at ladwp.com/EV.

What's the warranty for the charging station?

In general, warranties for EV charging equipment range from one to five years. Warranty for installation is typically one year.

How much does it cost to charge an EV?

It depends on your electricity rate. At 20 cents per kilowatt-hour, it costs about 7 cents for every mile of driving or $15 to fully charge a 225-mile range vehicle.

Who owns the charging stations?

If you purchase the stations, you own them and control who can use them and whether to offer them free of charge or not. There may be leasing options available from charger suppliers.

Should you install networked chargers?

It's probably a good idea for multiple stations at one location. "Smart charging" offers benefits in cost savings, remote access and integration to other networks. Start small and build these capabilities as you add more stations. An open-source solution allows you to switch charging providers later if you need to.

If you have questions about any of our EV programs visit ladwp.com/ev. You may also email [email protected] or call (866) 484-0433 for additional information.