Thinking about installing a Level 2 EV charger at home? Here's what the installation involves, how much it costs, and why pairing it with solar is the smartest move.
If you own an electric vehicle, a Level 2 home charger is one of the best upgrades you can make. Charging at home is cheaper, more convenient, and — when paired with solar — can be nearly free.
Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet. It adds about 3–5 miles of range per hour — fine for plug-in hybrids, but painfully slow for full EVs. Charging a Tesla Model 3 from empty takes 3+ days on Level 1.
Level 2 charging uses a 240V circuit (same as your dryer). It adds 20–30 miles of range per hour. A Tesla Model 3 charges from 20% to 100% in about 8 hours — overnight, while you sleep.
A Level 2 charger installation typically involves:
A typical Level 2 charger installation in Southern California costs $800–$1,500, including:
If your electrical panel needs upgrading (older homes with 100-amp panels), add $2,000–$4,000 for the panel upgrade.
Charging an EV adds 200–400 kWh/month to your electricity usage — a significant increase. Without solar, that's an extra $60–$160/month on your SCE bill.
With solar, you can charge your EV on sunshine. A properly sized solar system can cover both your home's electricity needs and your EV charging — for free, once the system is paid off.
Under NEM 3.0, the ideal setup is: charge your EV during the day when solar is producing, or charge from your Tesla Powerwall battery in the evening. Either way, you avoid SCE's peak rates.
Pell Solar installs Level 2 EV chargers as a standalone service or as part of a solar installation. We handle the permit, electrical work, and inspection — you just tell us where you want it.
Get a free, no-pressure quote from Pell Solar. Family-owned since 2003.