Not all EV chargers are made equal, and similarly, not all electricity usage is the same. The time of day you charge your car can significantly impact your bottom line and your impact on the environment, even without you realizing it. If your current EV charging strategy is pulling up to a Supercharger on your way to work, you might be contributing to an unseen but important electrical grid problem. Off-peak charging could be the solution.
What Is Off-Peak Charging?
Off-peak charging is a term you may have often heard as an EV owner, but what does it mean? Simply put, off-peak hours are specific times of the day when electricity demand is low. For example, FPL outlines their off-peak hours as follows:
November 1 – March 31: Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., excluding Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
April 1 – October 31: Monday through Friday outside the hours of noon to 9 p.m., excluding Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
During these off-peak hours, electricity rates are lower, making it more economical to charge your vehicle. On the flip side, the remaining hours are considered on-peak, when electricity demand is high and rates are more expensive.
Off-peak charging also benefits the electrical grid. The reason rates are lower in off-peak hours is the same reason why utilizing electricity outside of high-demand time slots lessens environmental impact. Lower demand means less strain on power plants, leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Points to Remember:
- Off-Peak Hours: Specific to your electricity provider.
- Cost Savings: Lower electricity rates during off-peak hours can significantly reduce your charging costs.
- Environmental Impact: Less strain on the grid translates to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Easy Ways to Benefit from Off-Peak Charging
So, you’re aware of off-peak hours and their benefits, but how can you practically take advantage of this knowledge? Here are some easy ways to make off-peak charging work for you:
Scheduled Charging: Many modern EVs have a feature allowing you to schedule your charging times. Simply set it to charge during off-peak hours and forget about it.
Smart Chargers: These chargers can be programmed to start charging at specific times. They can even be controlled via a smartphone app, giving you the flexibility to adjust as needed.
Notifications: Use your smartphone to set reminders for plugging in and unplugging your EV. There are also apps designed to notify you when off-peak hours start and end.
Incentive Programs: Some areas offer incentives for off-peak charging, such as reduced rates or rebates.
Energy Monitoring: Keep track of your energy usage with in-car displays or smartphone apps. This will help you understand your consumption patterns and adjust your charging schedule accordingly.
These strategies can help you make the most of off-peak charging, saving money and reducing your carbon footprint. It’s a win-win situation for you and the environment.
Hiring A Local Electrician For Your At-Home Charger
While off-peak charging is a great way to save money and be eco-friendly, driving your car to a public charging station to charge up midday isn’t feasible for most EV owners. A home charger allows you to take full advantage of off-peak hours without the hassle of finding a public charging station. As a Florida electrician with extensive experience installing EV chargers, we can help you choose the right at-home EV charger for your needs. Whether you’re interested in a Level 1 or Level 2 charger, a professional installation ensures you get the most efficient and safest charging experience.
If you want to install an EV charging station at your home to take advantage of off-peak hours, call the experts at Promise Electric today.
