How to Install a Charging Station
Installing at Single-Unit Dwelling
Installing a Level 1 EV charger
A Level 1 charger simply plugs into a standard 120-volt wall outlet. No additional costs or installation is involved in the process.
Installing a Level 2 EV charger
Level 2 chargers require 240-volts from your breaker panel. Before plugging anything into the panel, turn off all the power going to the said panel to ensure the safety of yourself and others. To increase the voltage, a "double-pole" circuit breaker needs to be attached to a two 120-volt outlet by using a 4-strand cable.
Once the cable is attached correctly, run the cable to the charging unit. The cable must be able to reach the unit. Next, mount the charging unit in a safe location and in proximity to where the EV will be stored/charged. Lastly, turn the power back on to the breaker panel.
If you are not comfortable installing the system by yourself, an electrician can install the system as well. Professional installation can cost between $200 and $1,200 depending on the location of the installation.
What if I do not have a garage to store my car?
If you do not have a garage, outdoor-rated units are available for purchase. Outdoor-rated units are safe to use in all weather conditions but you or your electrician need to secure a permit before you begin installing the unit. To install the unit, an electric service area is needed near the area in which you park your car.
Looking for a video walk through?
Chargepoint has created a simple and convenient video walk-through showing the steps of installing Level 2 charger in your own home. Click the link below to watch it.
Installing at Mutli-Unit Dwelling - Residents
As a resident of a Multi-Unit dwelling, it is possible to install a vehicle charging station. Here are the steps to installing one.
First, request the installation of the charging station. Make sure to consult both electrical contractors, to determine the most optional charging location, and Illinois's EV Infrasturcur Rebate Program for eligibility criteria.
Next, consult with the building manager or homeowners association about ownership and maintenance of the said station.
Before work begins, you must obtain an electrical permit from the City of Chicago. The permit can be process within a day through Chicago's Easy Permit Process.
Once your contractor has installed the charger, register your charger with ComEd.
Looking for a letter to convince your property manager to install a charging station?
Chargepoint has an example letter for you to send to your property manager to persuade them into installing charging systems. Access the letter by clicking on the link below.
Installing at Multi-Unit Dwelling Property Owners
As an owner of a Multi-Unit dwelling, it is possible to install a vehicle charging station. Here are the steps to installing one.
First, consult with an electrical contractor to determine the type of charging station, location of the station, and the electrical capacity of the building. Next, consult with the State's EV Infrasture Rebate Program for eligibility criteria.
Then obtain an electrical permit from Chicago. The permit can be process within a day through Chicago's Easy Permit Process.
Once the charger is installed, Contact ComEd about registering a new EV charging station and ensure the electrical contractors has arranged for the City of Chicago to inspect the station.