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Plug-In Electric Vehicle

Plug-in Electric Vehicles (PEV) refers to plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles:

Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) are vehicles that run on gas and electric (or battery).
Electric vehicles (EV) run purely on electric from a battery.

Plug-in Electric Vehicles Offer Three Great Benefits

Low Maintenance: Because Battery Electric Vehicles do not have a transmission or combustion engine – eliminating oil changes, fuel filters, emissions testing and other costly maintenance, there is a cost savings. A simplified drive train and braking system also means greater reliability and fewer potential repairs, too.
Low Environmental Impact: About one-third of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation – and 60 percent of that is from personal vehicle use. Plug-in electric vehicles have fewer emissions than a gasoline engine. Studies have shown that a mass shift from gas-powered cars to plug-in hybrids or electric vehicles would result in lower pollution, including lower emissions of greenhouse gases.
Good Fuel Economy: Electric Vehicles are less costly to run because they use electricity for all or part of their power.

PEVs are becoming easier to find. Many car manufacturers now offer PEVs and many more are working on developing new models. We’re proud to have incorporated Electric Vehicles into our own fleet.

Charging Options

What is the difference between 120 volt and 240 volt chargers?

Normal U.S. voltage for an appliance (such as a hair dryer) is 120 volts. Level 1 electric vehicle charger is 120V. Higher U.S. voltage for larger appliances (such as an electric clothes dryer) is 240 volts. Level 2 electric vehicle charger is 240V. Level 2 chargers will recharge a vehicle at a faster rate.

Can I plug the vehicle into an existing outlet, or will I need to change my home wiring?

For a vehicle that can be charged at 120 volts, you can use a standard outlet with an appropriate adapter. You should consult a licensed electrician to ensure your wiring will allow you to do so.

How long does it take to charge a PEV?

It varies by car, manufacturer and the type of charger used. For example:

A Level 1 charger provides charging through a standard 120V outlet. This type of charging may typically provide about 4 miles per hour of charge.
A Level 2 charger provides charging through a standard 240V outlet. This type of charging may typically provide about 25 miles per hour of charge.

Consult the auto and/ or charger manufacturer for more information.

Are there public charging sites I can use?

Charging a vehicle will be done typically overnight at home. Public charging stations are becoming more and more available. The following website lists charging station locations: https://www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/fuels/electricity_locations.html

Every location will vary. Contact your local officials to find out.

Home Installations

I live in an apartment, condominium or high-rise. How will I charge a PEV?

Before purchasing a PEV, research where you can charge it. Contact your property management.

Can the grid handle an influx of PEVs?

Numerous studies have shown that a large number of PEVs could be on the grid at one time. RG&E is incorporating the additional usage of PEVs in our electricity load forecasting.

I'm ready to buy a PEV. What do I need to do first?

Consult your vehicle manufacturer on the requirements for the car. The costs for charging your new vehicle will be included in your regular monthly utility bill – just like a new appliance. RG&E will not need to do anything differently before you can enjoy your PEV.

Do I have the necessary equipment and electric capacity?

Consult your vehicle manufacturer on the requirements for the car and a licensed electrician for questions about your home electrical outlet needs.

Do I need to be on a special rate?

RG&E offers a rate for Electric Vehicle users. You can read about Residential Day/Night Service for Electric Vehicles on page 12 of PSC filing 19 Service Classification No. 4. Please contact us for more information by emailing customer_service@rge.com.

How will my PEV usage be shown on my bill?

It will be included in your overall monthly kWh usage.

Incentives, Rebates, and Tax Credits

Are there rebates or tax credits available for purchasing a plug-in vehicle?

The State of New York offers rebates on new electric plug-in electric vehicles of up to $2,000 for eligible vehicles through the Charge NY Initiative and the Drive Clean Rebate Program. For more information visit the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority at https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/Drive-Clean-Rebate

Certain plug-in electric vehicles may also be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit of up to $7,500. Visit https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxevb.shtml for more information.

Where can I go to get additional information?

The State of New York hosts a website dedicated to electric and alternative fuel vehicle adoption in the State. The website contains a wealth of information for consumers who are considering purchasing a plug-in electric vehicle. Visit https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/Drive-Clean-Rebate. Also see the Related Links and Other Resources section of RG&E’s Plug-in Electric Vehicle page.

Any questions related to a specific car or questions about car comparisons should be directed to the auto manufacturer. Specific questions about fuel cell technology or any alternative fuels can be directed to the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center.