Plan the solar around the car
A typical EV adds a few thousand kWh a year. Because Black Hills’ size cap is based on reasonable expected consumption, a new EV is a legitimate reason to size solar larger — keep the purchase paperwork handy in case the utility asks.
Charging schedule
Ask us to check which rate plan you’re on before you set a charging schedule. If Black Hills offers a time-based plan you qualify for, overnight charging is usually the cheapest; if you’re on a flat rate, the time matters less and convenience wins.
Utility type
Investor-owned utility
How exports are credited
Exports banked 1:1 as kWh credits
System size limit
Up to 200% of reasonable and expected annual consumption.
Net metering, in plain English
As an investor-owned utility, Black Hills follows Colorado’s full net-metering statute. Excess solar is added to your banked energy for future months, and the system can be sized to supply up to 200% of your reasonable expected annual use.
Sources & dated facts
- Systems may be sized to supply no more than 200% of the customer’s reasonable and expected annual electricity consumption; excess energy is added to banked energy for future months.As of Sep 23, 2026 · source
- Application fees: $380 for systems up to 25 kW AC; $760 for 25 kW to 1 MW.As of Sep 23, 2026 · source
FAQ
Questions we hear
Does Black Hills Energy give a rebate for a home EV charger?
We haven’t confirmed a current Black Hills home-charger rebate. Check its Colorado programs page before you buy; the federal §30C credit ended June 30, 2026.
Can I make my solar bigger because I bought an EV?
Black Hills sizes by reasonable expected consumption, up to 200%, so a new EV is a valid reason to plan more panels.
How much does a Level 2 charger install cost?
We typically install Level 2 chargers for about $2,500–$3,000, depending on the distance to your panel and whether it has room.