Understanding time-of-use (TOU) rates
Slash charging cost 40–60% by shifting to off-peak electricity.
Put the advice next to real savings examples
The guide gives you the decision framework. The rolling examples show how much the numbers can move once model and location enter the picture.
EVs have ~20 moving parts vs 2,000+ in a gas engine
What TOU pricing is
Time-of-Use electricity rates charge different prices depending on when you use power. Peak hours (typically 4–9pm on weekdays) cost 2–4× more than off-peak hours (typically 9pm–6am and weekends). Utilities offer TOU because it encourages customers to shift consumption away from the hours when the grid is most stressed. EV owners benefit enormously because charging is flexible — your car doesn't care if it charges at midnight.
How much you can actually save
At national average rates (16.2¢/kWh), charging a Model Y for a year of typical driving costs about $437 at home. On a good TOU plan charging at off-peak rates (as low as 7–12¢/kWh in some states), that drops to $190–280/yr. That's an extra $150–250 in savings just from when you charge, on top of the EV vs gas savings.
- ·California (PG&E EV2-A): ~8¢/kWh off-peak vs 55¢ peak
- ·Texas (TXU EV Plan): ~6¢/kWh off-peak overnight
- ·Arizona (APS EV): ~5¢/kWh off-peak
- ·Most states: off-peak rates range from 7–14¢/kWh
How to find and enroll
Search '[your utility name] time of use EV rate' — most major utilities have a dedicated EV rate. Enrollment is usually free and takes 5 minutes online. Your utility may send a new smart meter if needed (no cost to you). Some utilities offer bill protection guarantees while you trial TOU for the first 12 months.
Setting up scheduled charging
Once enrolled, tell your car or charger to only charge during off-peak hours. Every major EV has this built in — look for 'Scheduled Charging' or 'Departure Time' in your car's app or settings. Smart chargers like JuiceBox, Emporia, and Wallbox also have built-in scheduling. Set the window to start charging at 9pm (or whenever your off-peak begins) and finish by 6am.
- ·Tesla: Charging Settings → Schedule → set off-peak start/end
- ·Hyundai/Kia: MyHyundai or Kia Connect app → Charging → Schedule
- ·Ford: FordPass app → Charge Settings → Scheduled Charging
- ·Smart charger: set within the charger's own app
One catch: summer peak pricing
In hot climates (California, Arizona, Texas), summer peak rates can be extreme — 45–60¢/kWh during afternoon hours. On TOU plans, avoid running high-draw appliances (dishwasher, dryer, AC) during peak hours in summer, not just your car charger. Pre-cool your home before 4pm if you're in a hot climate.
Best Level 2 home chargers
Installing a Level 2 charger is the biggest convenience upgrade in EV ownership — full battery every morning.
Most homes do best with a 40–48 A charger on a dedicated 240 V circuit, but the right pick depends on your panel, connector type, and whether you want smart scheduling for off-peak utility rates.
Wi-Fi, app control, works with any EV. Most flexible amperage (16–50 A).
40 A / 240 V, UL certified, metal enclosure — no-frills workhorse.
Native NACS connector, up to 48 A. Best-in-class for any Tesla.
Plugs into 240 V dryer outlet — no install needed, take it anywhere.
Budget $800–$1,500 installed for many Level 2 setups. A short wiring run from a modern panel can be less, while older homes, long conduit runs, permits, trenching, or panel upgrades can push the project higher.
Before buying hardware, ask your electrician whether your home supports a plug-in NEMA 14-50 unit or should use a hardwired charger. Hardwired installs are often cleaner outdoors and can support higher amperage.
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See your exact numbers
Pick your EV, your current gas car, and your state — get a personalised savings estimate with real 2026 rate data.
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A no-nonsense checklist for home EV charging, from panel to permit.