• Our Environment
Plug-in Electric Vehicle Basics

Plug-in Electric Vehicle Basics

All around the Madison area increasing numbers of people are discovering the benefits of driving electric vehicles. MGE has prepared for this trend by installing a network of 26 public charging stations.

Benefits of electric vehicles

  • Reduced gasoline use. Most gasoline comes from foreign sources. Electricity generation uses domestic fuels.
  • Lower fuel costs. Electricity is less expensive per mile driven than gasoline or diesel fuel.
  • Reduced air emissions. And you can offset those emissions by buying green power for your home and vehicle charging through MGE's Green Power Tomorrow program.

Public charging available

  • MGE has installed a network of 26 public charging stations. See charging station map.
  • Powered by green energy, they are available to "top off" the battery to extend your vehicle's driving range.
  • All stations offer Level 1 (120 volt) and Level 2 (240 volt) charging.
  • See availability at www.chargepoint.net/find-stations.php.

What does it cost to use an MGE public charging station?

During our current research study, it's free. There will be a cost in the future. MGE is evaluating different pricing options.

How can I get access to an MGE public charging station?

  • Call MGE's Home Energy Line at (608) 252-7117 during business hours (Monday-Friday) to request a ChargePoint card, or

  • Visit chargepoint.net to sign up for a ChargePoint account and receive an access card.

Home charging options

  • Standard Level 1 charging requires nothing more than an available 120-volt outlet and the cord and adapter that come with your electric vehicle. Using a standard extension cord is not recommended and may void your warranty.
  • Level 2 charging requires a 240-volt outlet and a home charging system. A licensed electrician can tell you if your home is charging station ready.
    • You may need additional wiring to install a dedicated circuit and 240-volt outlet.
    • Depending where you live, an electrical permit and inspection may be necessary for the electrical work.
    • MGE wants to know if you plan to install a Level 2 charger so we can be sure our distribution system is prepared to serve your additional energy needs. Please call MGE's Home Energy Line at (608) 252-7117.
  • If you live in an apartment or condominium complex, please talk with your landlord or property management company about your options for a home charging station.

What type of home charging equipment should I buy?

Auto manufacturers can provide information about home charging stations that are compatible with your vehicle. An excellent online source of information is GoElectricDrive.com.

What does a home charging system cost?

  • Installation and equipment costs for a home charging system can range from $500 to $3,500, depending on the type of equipment and any electrical work needed at your home.
  • A qualified electrical contractor can provide an accurate estimate. Be sure to work with an electrician who is licensed and insured.
  • You may also need an electrical permit, which will be an additional cost. Your electrician can provide more information.

What does it cost to charge my electric vehicle at home?

The maximum cost to charge your electric vehicle depends on its battery capacity and the current cost per kilowatt-hour electricity rate. Currently the maximum charging costs for the following popular plug-in electric vehicles (based on MGE's residential electric rate) are:

Nissan Leaf $3.48
Chevy Volt $2.32
Toyota Prius $0.64

Using a Level 1 or 2 charging system changes the length of time for charging, not the cost.

Does it cost less to charge my electric vehicle at night?

Some electric vehicles provide the option to program your vehicle to charge during off-peak hours, primarily at night, when less electricity is used.

  • To take advantage of lower, off-peak electricity prices, you must be enrolled in MGE's time-of-use rate.
  • Customers pay more during high use, on-peak hours (10 a.m. to 9 p.m., excluding holidays and weekends) and much less during off-peak (all other times).
  • The more electricity use you can shift to off-peak use (not just vehicle charging), the more money you can save.
  • Visit mge.com/tou or call our Home Energy Line at (608) 252-7117 to learn more.

How long does it take to charge my electric vehicle?

Charging times vary based on make and model of vehicle, battery state-of-charge and other factors. As a general rule:

Vehicle Charge Time*
  Voltage Plug in hybrid electric Battery electric
Level 1 charging 120 volts 6-8 hours 21 hours
Level 2 charging 240 volts 3-4 hours 7 hours

* From fully depleted battery.

MGE is ready to help

  • We can help you plan for electric vehicle charging.
  • Call the Home Energy Line at (608) 252-7117.

Cold Weather and Electric Vehicles [142 kB PDF]
MGE's Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Electric Vehicle Charging Questions? We Have Answers [771 kB PDF]
MGE's EV Charging Research

For more information

Visit GoElectricDrive:

  • See which auto manufacturers have electric vehicles available.
  • Use the calculator to estimate potential savings from going electric.
  • Find brands of at-home charging equipment.

Visit US DOE Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Center for comprehensive information about:

  • Electric vehicles.
  • Pricing.
  • Charging locations.
  • More information.

Clean Cities Car Buyer Guide 2013 [3.1 MB PDF]
Clean Cities Consumer Guide [2.0 MB PDF]
Clean Cities PEV Basics [1.1 MB PDF]