Charging schedules under the new CSU structure
If you go solar under CSU’s time-of-use option, charging after the evening peak or during midday solar hours avoids paying on-peak rates for your car. If you pick the demand option, the risk is different: a 40- or 48-amp charger running at the same time as your oven and dryer can set a monthly demand charge on its own. Scheduling the charger, or lowering its amperage, fixes most of that.
Every charger we install supports scheduled charging, and we walk through the settings with you at handoff rather than leaving it to the app.
Cold starts, Monument Hill and range
Winter mornings on the Palmer Divide are hard on EV range, and preconditioning the battery while it is still plugged in is the best cure. That’s an argument for a Level 2 charger in the garage even for drivers who could technically get by on a wall outlet.
For homes with a bidirectional-capable vehicle, the car itself can become backup power during an outage. Our bidirectional whole-home backup systems start around $19,000 and are worth a look on the east side, where outages on long rural lines can last longer.
Permits and incentives
A new charger circuit in any PPRBD jurisdiction needs an electrical permit, and panel upgrades are often part of the job on older Colorado Springs homes with 100-amp service. We handle the permit and inspection.
The federal §30C charger credit ended for equipment placed in service after June 30, 2026, so don’t count on it now. Ask your utility whether it offers a current EV rate or rebate before you buy.
FAQ
Questions we hear
Will a Level 2 charger raise my demand charge under CSU’s new solar option?
It can, if it runs while other large loads are on. Scheduling charging for late night or reducing the charger’s amperage usually keeps it from setting your monthly peak.
Do I need a permit for an EV charger in Colorado Springs?
Yes. A new 240-volt charger circuit needs an electrical permit from Pikes Peak Regional Building Department, and we pull it as part of the installation.
Is there still a federal tax credit for home EV chargers?
No. The §30C credit ended for chargers placed in service after June 30, 2026. Verify current state and utility offers before you buy.
Can my EV power my house during an outage in Black Forest?
With a compatible vehicle and a bidirectional charging system, yes. Our whole-home backup systems of this kind start around $19,000, and we confirm vehicle compatibility before quoting.