EVerything Charging

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are easy to use, maintain and fuel. You can even refuel using a regular outlet at home. If you are a new EV owner or think you might want to get one in the future, you may want to bookmark this page for great information on charging basics, rebates and where to find Austin Energy public charging stations. 

Level 1

• Chargers that plug into a regular 120-volt home outlet, just like the one you use to charge your phone or toothbrush.
• Slow charge rate; 3-5 miles per hour.
• Useful for drivers traveling 40 miles or less daily.
• Level 1 charging is best for charging at home overnight.

Level 2

• 240-volt chargers, like the one used for a clothes dryer outlet.
• Medium charge rate; 15-30 miles per hour.
• Useful for drivers traveling 100+ miles daily.
• Level 2 charging is best when you have time to charge over several hours.

DC Fast Charging

• Three connector types; CHAdeMO, SAE Combo (CCS), and NACS (Tesla).
• Fast charge rate; 150-400 miles per hour.
• Useful for long-distance driving 300+ miles daily.
• Fast charging is best when you are on the go and need to charge your EV in under 30 minutes.

When to charge

All electric vehicles come with timers that allow you to pre-set when the car charges. It is best to charge your electric vehicle between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. when renewable wind power peaks and has more capacity in the Texas grid. It is best to avoid charging your electric vehicle between 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. when there is typically less capacity in the Texas grid. (Texas Department of Transportation)

How full to charge

To ensure your battery lasts longer, it is recommended that you keep its charge between 20% and 80% whenever possible. For your daily driving needs, charge your battery up to 80%. Before embarking on long trips, you can charge it up to 100%. However, avoid charging your battery to 100% at DC fast charging stations on long trips. Instead, charge only what you need to reach your destination, usually 80% or less. Finally, avoid letting your battery sit at 0% or 100% for extended periods of time. (Texas Department of Transportation)

Rebates for Home and Business

• For homeowners: One of the biggest perks of driving an EV is to charge right at home while you sleep. While you can plug an EV into a regular 120-volt outlet, a Level 2 (240-volt) charging station gives you a faster charge. Austin Energy offers a rebate for a Level 2 home charger.
• For businesses: An EV charging station is a big customer draw. Austin Energy has a rebate of up to $5,000 to cut costs on installing electric vehicle charging stations at your business. Learn more at Plug-In Austin Commercial EV Charging Station Rebate.

Charge-On-The-Go

Charging options for everyone to use when out and about in Austin. Austin Energy is working hard to make EV charging easy and convenient throughout our service area. We work to continually grow and expand our charging network. These rates are for everyone; no subscription is required.

Level 2 Charging Ports in Austin

The Austin Energy Plug-In EVerywhere℠ network offers charging at our 1,600+ Level 2 charging ports throughout our service area. Level 2 charging stations charge $0.09 per kWh, which comes to about a penny per minute.

Austin Energy’s DC Fast Chargers

Conveniently located near major transit routes in Austin, these chargers are perfect for quickly charging your EV. Charge up and get on your way for only $0.21 per minute, plug-in to plug-out.

All public EV charging in Austin is powered by Austin Energy's GreenChoice® Wind Energy program.