GO SOLAR!

SWITCH TO SOLAR, STOP OVERPAYING FOR YOUR ELECTRICITY

COMMERCIAL SOLAR INCENTIVES, 30% INVESTMENT TAX INCENTIVE, AND MORE UNTIL 2027

RESIDENTIAL SOLAR,

THIRD PARTY OWNERS (TPO) MAY LEASE YOUR ROOF

MANY LOCAL INCENTIVES

CHANGING INCENTIVES

The landscape of solar energy incentives is rapidly evolving, bringing fresh opportunities, new challenges, and critical information that every solar advocate, business owner, and industry professional should know. As federal, state, and local policies adapt to meet changing energy needs and climate goals, it is more important than ever to stay informed and proactive.

Solar panels under a partly cloudy sky.

Solar DC Power specializes in Commercial Solar and Residential Solar, and climate change infrastructure, including EV chargers and scalable storage batteries.  Due to differences between the two, we work on different virtual platforms —residential and commercial —and with corresponding Groups: Surge and Watthub for commercial projects and Powur for residential projects. Surge's Mission Statement is " to accelerate the transition to clean energy by connecting businesses and organizations with scalable solutions that lower costs, increase profitability, and reduce environmental impact". Watthub's Mission Statement is similar and  Solar DC Power subscribes to both Mission Statements. Solar DC Power is taking an integral part in building infrastructure to build resilience to climate instability. Our access includes support from Watthub and Surge's top Strategists. Our support companies have designed systems that can be installed on rooftops, ground mounts, or carports, in sizes ranging from megawatt utility-grade projects to 600 kW for Business Buildings, and even a 28 kW Juice Bar. With our collective, extensive experience, attention to detail, and focus on clients' desires, we customize solar systems that meet your unique energy needs, helping businesses, homeowners, and community organizations participate in the clean energy transition. Get a no-obligation preliminary offer based on current usage and a property analysis. This is the starting point with no money out of your pocket for a deep dive discovery call.


Economic incentives, 30% tax credit is available for commercial, and several other 10% credits may be available. The greater the tax credits, the more money a business can save.  And commercial solar credits exist until 2027, if begun by mid-2026. Now is the perfect time to invest in a solar system for your business. No matter the size of your business or the industry you’re in, or the amount of electricity you use, you may take advantage of the benefits of switching to sustainable energy. A commercial solar system can significantly lower your energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, solidify your company’s commitment to sustainability, and improve the comfort and value of your commercial property. Solar DC Power offers free consultations to help local business owners in our community make their transition to sustainable energy seamless and stress-free. Contact Solar DC Power now to discover how much you can save by owning your power, and never endure another power outage. Solar DC Power serves the Atlanta metro area, all of Georgia, and throughout the United States and Canada.

 

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Investing in solar energy is a strategic move for forward-thinking businesses. With rising energy costs and growing environmental concerns, solar power offers a way to reduce operational expenses, enhance your brand’s sustainability, and future-proof your business against energy market volatility.

Solar DC Power's vision remains that of Surge's, "A regenerative, sustainable future powered by a decentralized clean energy grid — built by a global movement of innovators, partners, and experts".

Contact us now for a free consultation that includes an analysis of your energy needs, an engineered solar solution tailored to your facility, and economic modeling.

OUR COMMERCIAL

 SOLAR SERVICES

  • Custom System Design: Your energy requirements will be analyzed a solar solution tailored to your facility.
  • Professional Installation: Our certified installers provide a seamless and efficient installation process with minimal disruption.
  • Ongoing Maintenance: Enjoy peace of mind with professional monitoring and maintenance services.
  • Financing Options: Flexible financing and leasing plans available.


INDUSTRIES WE SERVE

  • Manufacturing & Warehousing
  • Grocery Stores
  • Retail & Shopping Centers
  • Offices & Commercial Buildings
  • Schools & Universities
  • Healthcare Facilities
  • Motels & Restaurants
  • Government Buildings & facilities
  • Park and rides

WHY PARTNER WITH US

  • Proven Expertise: Decades of experience and hundreds of successful commercial installations.
  • Turnkey Solutions: Design and permitting through installation and maintenance—we handle it all.
  • Customer-Centric Approach: Transparent communication and personalized service at every step.
  • Latest innovative Technology: We use only the highest quality equipment for maximum reliability.

In recent years, our power has become noticeably worse. Batteries, paired with software, provide a clean, inexpensive, and sustainable fuel source, along with a unique business model, making your power more reliable and substantially less expensive. This, coupled with the fact that U.S. power demand is rapidly rising in response to the AI boom, cryptocurrency blockchain, aging grid infrastructure, and increasing occurrences of wildfires and other severe weather events that damage transmission and distribution lines, makes backup power much more desirable for many business owners and homeowners. The average cost of electricity will continue to rise, and as  grid electricity prices go up, those businesses producing their own electricity will save more money and will not suffer financial losses and the inconvenience of power outages. Call Solar DC Power and avoid power outages and save money.

Solar panels on a building roof, next to parked white vehicles.

RESIDENTIAL SOLAR

Residential solar energy is transforming the way homeowners power their lives. With rising utility costs and increasing awareness of environmental responsibility, switching to solar is a smart investment. Solar panels allow you to harness the sun’s energy, reducing your dependence on Grid electricity sources and helping you save money every month.


When you’re ready to get started with solar power for residential homes,  Solar DC Power is here to help. We pride ourselves on offering affordable prices and providing extensive customer education, which means you’ll leave your initial consultation and onsite assessment fully empowered to make an informed decision for your family. Contact Us today to schedule an appointment for your on-site home assessment. We’ll answer any questions you may have about our residential solar services in Atlanta, assess your home’s solar power needs, and design a solar system just for you.

Benefits of Residential Solar 

·        Lower Energy Bills: Solar panels generate clean electricity, reducing your monthly utility expenses and often leading to substantial savings over time.

·        Increase Home Value: Homes with solar energy systems are more attractive to buyers and can sell at a premium compared to non-solar homes.

·        Environmental Impact: Solar power is renewable, clean, and significantly reduces your carbon footprint—helping you contribute to a healthier planet.

·        Energy Independence: With solar panels, you can protect yourself from rising energy costs and power outages.

·        Government Incentives: Many states offer tax credits and rebates for solar installation, making it more affordable than ever.

EXTRA BONUS CREDIT AREAS 

Energy Community Tax Credit Bonus (2024 Coal Closure Energy Communities, 2024 MSAs/non-MSAs that are Energy Communities)


https://arcgis.netl.doe.gov/portal/apps/experiencebuilder/experience/?id=a2ce47d4721a477a8701bd0e08495e1d

 

Clean Electricity Low-Income

Communities Bonus Credit Program


https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/12227d891a4d471497ac13f60fffd822/page/Page

White SUV parked under solar panel canopy in parking lot.

Solar power is a smart investment for homeowners. Not only will residential solar panels lower your monthly electric bill, they can also increase the resale value of your house and reduce your carbon footprint. If you are thinking about going solar, several factors determine whether your home is a good fit:

Many life changes can contribute to an increase in household electricity usage that may prompt you to consider home solar panels. These include moving into a larger home, adding to your family with children or older parents moving in, purchasing an electric vehicle, or installing a pool. If your electricity bills have recently gone up, now is the perfect time to see how residential solar panels can lower your bills


Man in safety glasses installs a solar panel on a rooftop.

Steps to Go Solar


1.     Free Consultation: Schedule a meeting with our solar experts to discuss your energy goals and evaluate your home’s suitability for solar.

2.     Custom Design & Proposal: Receive a personalized solar system design and a clear breakdown of costs and savings.

3.     Professional Installation: Our certified technicians handle the installation process quickly and efficiently.

4.     System Activation: Once installed, we’ll guide you through activating and monitoring your new solar system.


INCREASED HOME VALUES

Study after study has shown that solar panels increase home value. The added value varies by location and other factors, and is not directly impacted by any solar tax credit. However, by claiming available state and local government tax credit, you get a significant discount on a home upgrade that improves your home value, and benefit from the full property value of the system when you sell your house. Additionally, many states have property tax exemptions for the value solar adds to your home.

MONETIZE YOUR ROOF

"Residential solar TPO" most commonly refers to Third-Party Ownership, a financing model where a company owns and installs a solar system on a homeowner's roof, typically for zero or low upfront cost. Under this arrangement, the homeowner either pays a fixed monthly fee for the energy (a solar lease) or a set rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh) produced through a Power Purchase Agreement. The third-party owner is responsible for maintenance and receives the tax benefits and incentives, which are then passed on to the homeowner as lower rates.

Going solar is easier and more affordable than you might think. We offer multiple financing options for residential and commercial solar systems, chargers, and storage batteries, including low-interest loans and leasing programs. Additionally, you may qualify for state and local incentives and utility rebates, which can significantly reduce your upfront costs. Solar DC Power stands ready to provide you with the most economical systems that provide the amount of electricity that meets your needs. 

A person installing solar panels on a rooftop, wearing safety gear and gloves.

Pre & Post Solar

Installation Roof Inspections

Nearly every solar project includes inspections before and after the installation to ensure your roof, commercial or residential, is ready for solar installation and that your roof’s warranty is maintained.

CONTACT US
Close-up of gray corrugated metal roofing, with a blurred background.

Our solar installation experts work with your team to ensure every project is completed with care and professionalism, ensuring an installation that will last the life of your roof and protect existing roof warranties.

Tiled roofs of a white building under a clear, bright blue sky.

Pre & Post Solar

Installation Roof Inspections

There are many important factors to consider when installing a solar power system on your roof. It is vital to the integrity and lifespan of your roofing system to make all necessary roof repairs BEFORE installation of any solar power system.

Solar panels are built to work in all climates, but in some cases, rooftops may not be suitable for solar systems due to age or tree cover. If there are trees near your home that create excessive shade on your roof, rooftop panels may not be the most ideal option. The size, shape, directional orientation, and slope of your roof are also important factors to consider. Typically, solar panels perform best on south-facing roofs with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees, though other roofs may be suitable too. You should also consider the age of your roof and how long it will be before it needs replacement.

If a solar professional determines that your roof is not suitable for solar, or you don’t own your home, you can still benefit from solar energy. Community solar allows multiple people to benefit from a single, shared solar array that can be installed on- or off-site. Costs associated with purchasing and installing a solar energy system are divided among all of the participants, who are able to buy into the shared system at a level that best fits their budget. Learn more about community solar.

Those interested in community solar can take advantage of a tool from SETO awardee EnergySage. The company's Community SolarMarketplace aggregates the many available options in one place and standardizes project information, allowing interested consumers to easily locate and compare multiple community solar projects in their area.


Sunset over a hazy horizon, with shades of orange and red in the sky.

Empowering Local Energy Solutions

EV charging station sign, green and white, outdoors with trees in the background.
White electric car charging at a station. Black cable plugged into the car; green curb.

Although Level 3 chargers offer unmatched charging speed, their high costs and infrastructure demands make them better suited for specific commercial settings where users require a quick charge, such as fuel stations adjacent to Interstate highways. Level 3 chargers' average cost is $50,000, and up to 3 autos may charge at each station. Permits are required to install 3-phase electricity, and electrical line items required to carry larger loads are more expensive. Level 2 chargers are much less expensive, costing $1000 to $2000, but take 6 to 8 hours to fully charge an EV. Level 2 chargers suit homeowners, park & rides, movie theaters, sports events, and other locations where EVs may park for an hour or more.


Park and rides are ideal for the location of Level 2 chargers. Level 3 chargers will be required at gas stations. Users will want to stop for only a few minutes, fully charge their battery, perhaps grab a bite to eat, and continue to their destination.  For most homeowners, a Level 2 EV charger strikes the perfect balance of performance and affordability, ensuring your vehicle is ready when you need it. 


EXTRA BONUS CREDIT AREAS

30C Tax Credit Eligibility Locator --- re: EV chargers


https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/3f67d5e82dc64d1589714d5499196d4f/page/Page


So, filling up an average 12-gallon gas tank currently costs about $38.00, the average price of gas being $3.17. Things get a little tricky because, as we all know, cars and trucks use vastly different amounts of fuel. What is known:

  • Charging an electric vehicle (EV) battery overnight at home is usually the least expensive.
  • Gas prices fluctuate, and electricity rates vary regionally, but in most cases, it costs less per month to charge an EV than to buy gas for a traditional vehicle.
  • While free options are available, public charging stations typically have fees that cost more than home charging. 

In summary, Smart chargers are bringing a paradigm shift in user convenience with features like remote control, charge scheduling with a mobile app, and sophisticated capabilities such as artificial intelligence (AI) for data-driven analytics. The era of smart chargers brings an unprecedented level of user-centric functionality, transforming the perception of EV charging from a manual task to a seamlessly integrated and user-friendly experience.


Statistics are available at the United States Energy Information Administration. The most recent figures available at the time of this writing, July 2025, U.S. households pay an average of 18.10 cents per Kw/hr. To completely recharge a ninety Kw/Hr battery would cost a homeowner $16.29, between one third and one half the cost of filling a gas combustion engine, $38.04


EV charging infrastructure is one of the largest infrastructure overhauls the country has ever experienced. Whether you are looking to install a charging station at your home, add a charger for your customers at your business, or multiple charging stations for a fleet, Solar DC Power has resources to provide clients with the knowledge to select the charges to fit their needs, and the flexibility to phase projects for the client to achieveve near a 100% utililization, then add specifified chargers to meet your customer's charging needs.


The transition to electric vehicles represents a pivotal moment in our journey towards a sustainable future. The complexities presented by traditional charging infrastructure have been met with innovative solutions, particularly through the introduction of smart chargers that can efficiently address issues of compatibility, slow charging speeds, grid integration, and user convenience but also pave the way for a more seamless and efficient adoption of electric vehicles. With the continued development and implementation of smart charging technology, coupled with supportive policies and investments in charging infrastructure, we can accelerate the shift towards a cleaner, sustainable transportation system. By embracing these advancements, we not only improve the environmental impact of our vehicles but also enhance the overall experience of electric vehicle ownership, driving us towards a brighter, more sustainable future.


Contact Us

Financial spreadsheet showing cost and revenue projections over five years.

The table above shows a 5-year utilization on Level 3 chargers. YouTube nay-sayers are always predicting the demise of EVs, but without fact or evidence. Solar DC Power's vision of the future is science-based, and knows that severe weather will be the norm, parameters of the changing climate will be undisputed, and greater incentives will be restored with larger tax credits and apartments, condominiums, townhouses, and HOAs will be given initiatives that promote community climate infrastructure to build resillence to the destructive forces of unmitigated climate change.  Above, this projected utilization is based on four independent forecasts done by Boston Consulting Group, Ernst & Young, Guidehouse, and PwC, as well as analysis from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory is conservative and will be exceeded. Our beliefs are based on prevailing data and evidence. The report concludes that:



The number of EVs on U.S. roads is projected to reach 78.5 million in 2035, up from 4.5 million at the end of 2023. We believe it will be far exceeded, and by 2035, an environmental impact tax will de-incentivize fossil fuels, and EVs will dominate the motoring market. Even though our forecasts of utilization of chargers are much higher, the table, using conservative forecasts of more than 26 percent of the nearly 300 million total vehicles (cars and light trucks) expected to be on U.S. roads in 2035, will drive every gas station to invest in appropriate climate infrastructure. This growth is a paradigm in private vehicle transportation. Forward-looking rural gas stations will meet this challenge and provide as many, or more, Level 3 chargers as gas dispensers. The first service stations to invest in climate infrastructure will be ahead of the curve and reap the profits.

Solar-powered EV charging station with cars plugged in, sunny outdoor setting.

EV TRANSPORT PARADIGM


Electric cars are slowly but surely becoming commonplace, and they introduce a whole new generation of specifications that are worth caring about. Range is an obvious one — but there’s another metric that has a major impact on the overall experience of owning an electric car: voltage.

You’ll often see the voltage of an electric car’s battery pack touted in advertising. Hyundai, for instance, is proud of the 800-volt battery in cars like the EV6 — that’s double the voltage of the 400V battery in the Tesla Model Y.


The table above shows a 5-year utilization on Level 3 chargers. YouTube nay-sayers are always predicting the demise of EVs, but without fact or evidence. Solar DC Power's vision of the future is science-based, and knows that severe weather will be the norm, parameters of the changing climate will be undisputed, and greater incentives will be restored with larger tax credits and apartments, condominiums, townhouses, and HOAs will be given initiatives that promote community climate infrastructure to build resillence to the destructive forces of unmitigated climate change.  Above, this projected utilization is based on four independent forecasts done by Boston Consulting Group, Ernst & Young, Guidehouse, and PwC, as well as analysis from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory is conservative and will be exceeded. Our beliefs are based on prevailing data and evidence. The report concludes that:



The number of EVs on U.S. roads is projected to reach 78.5 million in 2035, up from 4.5 million at the end of 2023. Solar DC Power believes that as Range grows to 500 miles on a full charge, charging times decrease, and other climate resilience infrastructure expands to rural areas, EVs will be the transport of choice. The number of charging units at a service center in rural areas will equal or exceed the number of gasoline dispensers.  These favorable conditions will greatly increase demand for EVs, and they will far exceed forecasts.  By 2035, an environmental impact tax will de-incentivize fossil fuels, and EVs will dominate the motoring market. Even though our forecasts of utilization of chargers are much higher than the table, the table using conservative forecasts of more than 26 percent of the nearly 300 million total vehicles (cars and light trucks) expected to be on U.S. roads in 2035, will drive every gas station to invest in appropriate climate infrastructure. This growth is a paradigm in private vehicle transportation. Forward-looking rural gas stations will meet this challenge and provide as many, or more, Level 3 chargers as gas dispensers. The first service stations to invest in climate infrastructure will be ahead of the curve and reap the profits.


Although Level 3 chargers offer unmatched charging speed, their high costs and infrastructure demands make them better suited for specific commercial settings where users require a quick charge, such as fuel stations adjacent to Interstate highways. Level 3 chargers' average cost is $50,000, and up to 3 autos may charge at each station. Permits are required to install 3-phase electricity, and electrical line items required to carry larger loads are more expensive. Level 2 chargers are much less expensive, costing $1000 to $2000, but take 6 to 8 hours to fully charge an EV. Level 2 chargers suit homeowners, park & rides, movie theaters, sports events, and other locations where EVs may park for an hour or more.


Park and rides are ideal for the location of Level 2 chargers. Level 3 chargers will be required at gas stations. Users will want to stop for only a few minutes, fully charge their battery, perhaps grab a bite to eat, and continue to their destination.  For most homeowners, a Level 2 EV charger strikes the perfect balance of performance and affordability, ensuring your vehicle is ready when you need it. 


EXTRA BONUS CREDIT AREAS 


30C Tax Credit Eligibility Locator --- re: EV chargers


https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/3f67d5e82dc64d1589714d5499196d4f/page/Page


So, filling up an average 12-gallon gas tank currently costs about $38.00, the average price of gas being $3.17. Things get a little tricky because, as we all know, cars and trucks use vastly different amounts of fuel.


  • Charging an electric vehicle (EV) battery overnight at home is usually the least expensive option.
  • Gas prices fluctuate, and electricity rates vary regionally, but in most cases, it costs less per month to charge an EV than to buy gas for a traditional vehicle.
  • While free options are available, public charging stations typically have fees that cost more than home charging. 


Illuminated Tesla Supercharger station with white logo against a dark background.

EVs charge via AC (Level 1 or 2) or DC (Level 3 fast charging). While the grid supplies AC, batteries store DC. AC charging converts power on-board, which is slower, whereas DC fast charging converts it at the station, bypassing the on-board charger and delivering more power, making Level 3 charging much faster.

In conclusion, most EV owners charge overnight at home, taking advantage of lower electricity rates compared to gasoline. But even public fast chargers are generally cheaper than refueling with gas. And EVs have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, fewer brake replacements, and simplified drivetrains. Despite cost savings, enhanced performance, and environmental benefits, EVs face challenges in charging speeds, infrastructure gaps, and upfront costs. While some models offer over 300 miles of range, longer trips still require careful planning and stops for charging. This can create issues with longer routes because of the need to find charging stations and allow for more time to reach your destination.

What Affects Charging Speed?

Vehicle's maximum charging rate

Every electric car has a limit on how much power it can take in. It's much like water flow into the opening of a water bottle - no matter how big the water pipe is, the bottle can only take in water as fast as its opening allows. If your car can only handle 50kW of power, using a 150kW charger won't make it charge any faster. A Helpful Tip Before buying an electric car, check its maximum charging speed. This will affect how quickly you can charge every day.


Charging Station Power

The power rating of a charging station is like the size of the pipe delivering the electricity. Higher kW stations can charge faster, but there are limits. For instance, a 60kW station will charge a car faster than a 22kW station, assuming the vehicle is capable of accepting that power, 60kW in this case.


Charging Port Power

The charging port also plays a role in charging speed. A powerful charging port with a high amperage rating ensures the power can be delivered quickly and efficiently. If the port’s power rating is too low for the charging station, it can bottleneck the charging process, slowing things down even if the station is capable of higher power.


Vehicle's Battery Capacity

Just like a small bucket and a large bucket collecting water, even if the water flows at the same rate, the large bucket will take longer to fill. The battery capacity (in kWh) of the electric vehicle determines how much electricity needs to be charged. The larger the capacity, the longer the total charging time may be, even if the charging station has a high power.


Other influencing factors

Battery State of Charge (SOC) and Charging Curve

In the initial stage, especially when the State of Charge (SOC) is low, the charging speed is fast. As the SOC increases, the charging speed gradually slows down. The charging speed remains relatively fast when the SOC is between 20% and 80%, which is typically the most efficient phase of the charging process. Once the SOC reaches around 80%, the charging rate significantly decreases to prevent overcharging and protect the battery's health.


Studies have shown that there is no linear relationship between SOC and charging speed. Specifically, when the SOC is close to full charge, the BMS (battery management system) will reduce the charging power to ensure safety and extend battery life.


The EV charging curve is one of the most critical yet overlooked aspects of electric vehicle ownership. It relates to how fast one can get the car back on the road, battery health over the long term, and also stands as a much better comparison between one EV and another than mere peak charging numbers.

Making intelligent decisions in 2025 by studying the charts of EV charging curves and meaningful EV charging curve comparisons will become paramount for both buyers and drivers. Faster, flatter, and more consistent charging is essentially how technology will improve, paving the way for EVs to become the norm. 

For now, the takeaway is simple: know your vehicle’s charging curve, work around it, and your EV will provide maximum performance and longevity.


Graph illustrating a DC fast charging power curve, showing power output over time as EV battery State of Charge increases.

Temperature Matters

Battery temperature is really important for charging. The best charging temperature is between 68-77°F (20-25°C). Here's what happens at different temperatures:

· Below 32°F (0°C): Charging might be 50% slower

· Above 95°F (35°C): The car might slow down charging to protect the battery

· 68-77°F (20-25°C): This is the "perfect" temperature for charging

Power Grid Conditions

The power grid’s capacity and conditions also matter. If the grid is under heavy load or there are power restrictions, it might impact the performance of the station, resulting in slower charging times, especially during peak hours when demand is high.

If you're buying an EV and charger, understanding voltage platforms can help you explain fast-charging benefits.


Man on a roof installing a solar panel. He is wearing a black shirt, and a window is visible behind him.

ELECTRICITY RATE VARY

Electricity rates are subject to many factors, including the region where you live, the time of year, and even the time of day when peak charges apply. For the most part, electricity usage and costs are at their lowest late at night. That’s good news for anyone considering an EV. “While shoppers worry about access to public charging stations, they need to know that as much as 90% of electric car charging is done overnight at home.” “The cheapest way to charge your electric car is almost always at home, overnight. Some utilities have special low rates for the overnight period when their demand is lightest.”


Where you live directly impacts your electric bill. People in Massachusetts pay just over 30 cents per kWh of energy use, almost twice the cost in Florida (an average of 15.12 cents per kWh in July). A conservative rule of thumb is that an electric car gets three to four miles per kWh,” So divide the total miles you drive each month by three to get the kWh you would use monthly. Multiply that number by your cost per kWh. The dollar amount you get will most likely be lower than what you pay each month to buy gasoline.”


To put this into perspective, let’s give an example. Suppose you drive about 1,015 miles per month (Americans go an average of about 12,200 miles annually). For an EV, you will use about 338 kWh in that time frame. Using the most recent U.S. household average estimate of 18.10 cents per kWh, charging an electric car at home would cost about $61.18 per month. Using a DC fast charger at a public charging station when away from home, an EV driver might pay 50 cents per kWh, or $169 for that much energy.


https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/how-much-does-it-cost-to-charge-an-ev/#recharge-vs-fuel


Unlike a typical 240-volt, AC Level 2 home charger system, you will find Level 3 chargers in commercial settings because they’re prohibitively expensive for a private individual to install at home. Considering the vast cost difference, perhaps a mix of Level 2 and Level 3 EV chargers would provide the most functional service. EVs charge via AC (Level 1 or 2) or DC (Level 3, fast charging). While the grid supplies AC, batteries store DC. AC charging converts power on board, which is slower, whereas DC fast charging converts it at the station, bypassing the on-board charger and delivering more power, making Level 3 charging much faster.


Tesla owners use Tesla's dedicated Supercharger network, which has more than 2,500 U.S. locations with around 30,000 charging ports. Rates can vary widely depending on region, timing, the Tesla model or other vehicle you’re charging, and if you have a Tesla membership. One important caveat: Tesla Superchargers now work for some non-Tesla vehicles. In 2023, the Supercharger network began opening select locations to Tesla and the North American Charging Standard (NACS)- enabled vehicles with Combined Charging System (CCS) compatibility. However, Tesla charges $0.50 a Kw/Hr to charge, and at busy charging stations, charges Idle fees and congestion fees, $1.00 a minute. Tesla has located most of their charging stations in urban areas near areas of grocery stores, restaurants, and cinemas. As more manufacturers switch to producing more EVs, and the volume of EVs increases exponentially, rural gas stations will be required to invest in charging stations to retain their profits and continue operations.

 

EXTRA BONUS CREDIT AREAS:

 

30C Tax Credit Eligibility Locator --- re: EV chargers


https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/3f67d5e82dc64d1589714d5499196d4f/page/Page


A dark blue Volvo XC60 is charging at a public EV charging station in a parking lot on a sunny day.

EV charging station at Whole Foods

Decatur, Georgia


“Some workplaces offer charging for employees’ cars … But electric-car owners quickly learn which public stations near them are free, which charge for charging, and how much they cost.”

For example, a bustling parking lot in a crowded city center might lure EV owners with the promise of free electric car charging. But the resultant fee for parking there could easily zoom past what you’d have paid to fill up even the thirstiest gas-powered car or truck. Still, drivers will find the network of chargers growing with plenty of free options, including at malls, hotels, grocery stores, and more. Solar DC Power stresses that home charging is the best option for anyone considering an electric car. Yet, equally important is knowing where to find EV perks close to home.


Higher power charging stations can indeed offer faster charging speeds, but it’s not the only factor. The true charging speed depends on a combination of the station’s power, your vehicle's charging capacity, the condition of the battery, and environmental factors. By understanding how these elements work together, you can make better decisions to optimize your EV charging experience.

Illuminated Tesla logo on a charging station, glowing white against a dark backdrop.
White electric car charging at a Shell Recharge station in a parking lot.

EVs ARE THE FUTURE

In conclusion, most EV owners charge overnight at home, taking advantage of lower electricity rates compared to gasoline. But even public fast chargers are generally cheaper than refueling with gas. And EVs have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, fewer brake replacements, and simplified drivetrains. Despite cost savings, enhanced performance, and environmental benefits, EVs face challenges in charging speeds, infrastructure gaps, and upfront costs. While some models offer over 300 miles of range, longer trips still require careful planning and stops for charging. This can create issues with longer routes because of the need to find charging stations and allow for more time to reach your destination.

 

Ultra-fast chargers are being developed to reduce wait times. And it’s a matter of educating forward looking businesses to take the lead in rural areas to provide expensive Level 3 charging stations. Regardless of initial high costs, charging stations will bring another revenue stream to a business, and an increase in foot traffic. EV chargers are the cornerstone of sustainable transportation, offering clear benefits in cost, convenience, and emissions reduction. However, charging speed, infrastructure availability, and affordability remain hurdles that need continued innovation and investment.

Storage batteries are key to make renewable energy functional. They make it possible to provide the means for survivalists to live off-grid, make it possible for those forward-looking folks to endure power outages without the loss of stored foods and all other comforts afforded through electricity. Storage batteries are critical climate infrastructure, bridging the gap between intermittent renewable energy sources and reliable power. They’re not just large utility projects—distributed batteries in homes and businesses are equally vital for resilience. The next decade is expected to witness significant growth, with lithium-ion batteries giving way to sodium-ion batteries, sodium solid-state batteries, or Vanadium flow batteries, all of which are made from abundant and inexpensive raw materials. And there will be innovations in flow and thermal storage, expanding the toolkit.


As the world shifts towards cleaner, renewable energy solutions, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are becoming an integral part of the energy landscape. BESS enable us to store excess energy for later use, stabilizing the grid and improving the efficiency of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Whether you're a homeowner considering solar panel integration, a business looking to cut energy costs, or a utility-scale provider, understanding the different types of BESS and how they function is essential.


WHAT ARE BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS (BESS)

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are systems that store electrical energy for later use, typically using rechargeable batteries. These systems are designed to store excess energy generated from renewable sources like solar and wind and release it when demand is high or when generation is low. BESS helps balance the supply and demand of electricity, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. At the core of any Battery Energy Storage System are the batteries, which store electrical energy for later use. Batteries are the primary medium for energy storage in BESS, and their performance is a critical factor in determining the system’s efficiency, cost, and scalability. There are various types of batteries used in BESS, and each type has its unique properties, benefits, and challenges. The most common types of batteries used in BESS include:


Lithium-Ion Batteries:

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are the most widely used type in energy storage systems due to their high energy density, long lifespan, and relatively low maintenance requirements. These batteries can store large amounts of energy in a compact size and discharge it efficiently, making them ideal for both residential and utility-scale applications. Their ability to charge and discharge rapidly also makes them a great fit for managing peak loads and integrating intermittent renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind. A safety issue with lithium batteries is they heat up and have caused deadly fires. BYD, the largest EV manufacturer in the world, fastens baffles to dissipate heat on their Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries used in their EVs.


Sodium-Sulfur Batteries and Sodium Ion Batteries:

Sodium-sulfur (NaS) batteries are high-temperature batteries commonly used in utility-scale energy storage applications. These batteries are known for their high energy efficiency and ability to store large amounts of energy, even in harsh conditions. They operate at temperatures between 300°C and 350°C, which allows them to store and release energy at a very high rate, making them ideal for grid stabilization. However, they require specific temperature conditions and insulation, which can increase the complexity of their deployment. Whereas Sodium Ion batteries are more stable, and sodium is perhaps the most abundant and easily available known element, sodium batteries are far less expensive than Lithium batteries. Sodium batteries are just beginning to be mass-manufactured.


Flow Batteries:

Flow batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that uses liquid electrolytes to store energy. Unlike lithium-ion and sodium-sulfur batteries, which store energy in a solid form, flow batteries store energy in a liquid form that is pumped through the system. This unique design allows flow batteries to be highly scalable, meaning they can easily be expanded to store larger amounts of energy without sacrificing efficiency. Flow batteries are particularly suitable for large-scale, long-duration storage, and can last for thousands of charge-discharge cycles without


THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPACT OF BESS


BESS have a very favorable impact on the energy market: thanks to their operation, they can provide grid services and energy at times of high demand at more competitive prices than traditional generation plants; furthermore, they promote the flexibility of the electricity system and distributed generation, characteristics of the new paradigm. The old unidirectional model, with a few large power plants supplying electricity to passive users, is transforming into a multidirectional grid with many producers who are active players in the market. This marks an epoch-making change, not only from a technological but also from a social point of view. This transitional change will decentralize electricity distribution and automatically provide cybersecurity.


From an economic point of view, the most immediate beneficiaries of BESS are their private users, who save on their electricity bills and enjoy greater security of electricity supply. There are significant advantages both for the comfort of individual citizens and, even more so, for the competitiveness of businesses. Not only that, in the case of microgrids or energy communities, BESS also become a tool for social cohesion.


Last but not least, BESS have a beneficial impact on humanity from an environmental point of view: by promoting the spread of clean energy sources, they help mitigate climate change and improve air quality.


The role of BESS in the energy system is therefore increasingly crucial from a social and environmental sustainability perspective: in order to pursue a fair and secure energy transition, their presence must become increasingly widespread. Continuous improvements in terms of costs and performance give us every reason to believe that this will indeed be the case.


In conclusion, the future of storage batteries is defined by breakthroughs in chemistry, scale, and intelligence—moving beyond lithium-ion into multi-chemistry systems that will underpin clean energy, resilient grids, and electrified transport. By the 2030s, lithium-ion will no longer dominate alone; diverse chemistries will coexist to serve different applications.

Batteries are an important part of the global energy system today and are poised to play a critical role in secure, clean energy transitions. In the transport sector, they are an essential component in the millions of electric vehicles sold each year. In the power sector, battery storage is the fastest-growing clean energy technology on the market. The versatile nature of batteries means they can serve utility-scale projects, behind-the-meter storage for households and businesses, and provide access to electricity in decentralised solutions like mini-grids and solar home systems. Moreover, falling costs for batteries are rapidly improving the competitiveness of electric vehicles and storage applications in the power sector.

Microgrids: Empowering Communities and Enhancing Resilience


As of the beginning of 2023, there were approximately 692 microgrids within the United States. As the country (and much of the world) strives to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and other non-renewable energy sources while improving resilience in extreme weather conditions, the use of microgrids will likely expand worldwide. If you’re interested in sustainability and renewable energy, microgrids should be on your radar.


A microgrid is a group of interconnected loads and distributed energy resources that acts as a single controllable entity with respect to the grid. 

Most sustainable microgrids rely solely on renewable energy sources. These independent energy systems have clearly defined electrical boundaries and can connect to a main power grid or operate completely independently of larger energy systems (macrogrids). Microgrids consist of power systems, energy storage systems, control systems, and distribution infrastructure. If non-renewable energy sources are part of the power systems, then the energy storage systems and control methods can work to utilize renewable energy first. This, in turn, can reduce the need for non-renewable energy sources while cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental damage. 


Microgrids can vary in their operation based on how they are configured and the specific energy sources they use. However, most microgrids will consist of some combination of the following

  • Power sources – These are the resources that produce energy for the microgrid itself. These can be renewable resources (such as wind turbines and solar panels) but may also consist of some non-renewable options — all depending on the configuration. 
  • Energy storage systems – As the phrase implies, an energy storage system is a device (such as a battery) where energy created can be effectively stored until demand arises. Energy storage systems can also be useful for storing power for use when there is a pause in energy generation (as may be the case at night with solar power resources). 
  • Control system – Microgrids also have control systems, which may consist of load management tools, metering devices, and other tools that help the microgrid operate efficiently. Additionally, a control system may handle tasks like connecting and disconnecting the microgrid to a local macrogrid as well as providing data on production and consumption
  • Distribution infrastructure – Every microgrid relies on a distribution infrastructure that is responsible for transferring power directly from its storage systems to local power lines and transformers so it can be used. 


BENEFITS OF MICROGRIDS


Microgrids can easily be configured to prioritize renewable energy sources over non-renewable sources. This means that even if a microgrid is set up to generate power using a combination of renewable and non-renewable sources, the energy storage systems and control methods can work to utilize renewable energy first. This, in turn, can reduce the need for non-renewable energy sources while cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental damage.


By creating, storing, and distributing their own energy, microgrids can play a central role in reducing pressure on primary macrogrids nationwide and globally. This may be especially true during times of crisis, such as when a severe weather event causes a major power outage or disruption within a local macrogrid. 


When this happens, microgrids can be relied upon to reduce pressure on primary grids while providing a reliable supply of power for the most critical needs. This particular benefit of microgrids can be experienced anywhere, but is perhaps most notable in areas that are at a higher risk of natural disasters or remote areas with limited access to energy from macrogrids. 


Finally, because they allow for better management of local energy resources, microgrids can make a considerable difference in overall efficiency by helping to balance power supply and demand. In addition, microgrids can be configured to allow adjustments to energy usage based on specific price signals, which could lower energy costs in some areas.​ 

All of this, combined with the simple fact that microgrids are the more sustainable energy option, and it’s evident why more of these solutions continue to be installed across the country. 



FUTURE OF MICROGRIDS


Any new technology will face challenges when being set up and implemented on a large scale. https://www.utilitydive.com/news/oregon-legislature-passes-first-in-nation-microgrid-framework/752932/

One of the biggest obstacles in the integration of microgrids into our existing energy system, for example, is the fact that they are highly customised systems with very specific variables for each project. With so many different considerations to keep in mind (including various energy sources, site locations, and other needs), the process of designing and constructing a microgrid can be a large undertaking with no shortage of red tape along the way. 


Meanwhile, costs associated with the design and installation of a microgrid can be lofty — which can make getting approval for these projects challenging in various areas. The good news, however, is that costs should decrease over time as technology improves and microgrid integration becomes more widespread. 


The recent integration of artificial intelligence (AI) systems into new and existing microgrid configurations. Using AI and machine learning, it is possible to automate some tasks related to power generation and distribution with a focus on efficiency and cost savings. This, in turn, can make microgrids more cost-effective and reliable. And recent years have also shown compelling advancements in microgrid control systems. Many analyists believe the emergence of intelligent energy management systems (EMS) and advanced energy storage systems (ESS) to “optimise the utilization and effectiveness of ESS in microgrids” and “continuously monitor and forecast energy demand and generation […] to achieve optimal operational performance.” Microgrids are the last piece of the puzzle to facilitate the rapid transition from fossil fuels to sustainable and renewable fuels. And, just as municipal planners require permits and detailed plans to provide water and sewer to new developments, the same will be required, the development will be requird to permit and construct a Microgrid to provide and store enough electricity for the development.