EV chargers are no longer a luxury but have become a necessity. And why not when electric vehicles have increased exponentially over the years? So, whether it is a residential driveway or a commercial parking lot, EV charging stations are crucial. 

Is it easy to install an EV charging station? No. You must hire the right EV charging station contractor.

However, before you do that, you must learn everything about the installation. In a regulation-heavy city like Los Angeles, you need planning, permits, quality components, and the expertise of your electrical contractor to ensure installation success. 

This guide discusses everything you need to know about the cost, installation process, and selecting the right EV charging station contractor. 

What is The EV Charging Station Installation Process?

Installing an EV charging station is more than plugging in a device. It is a complicated project. The details are discussed below:

Site Assessment

A licensed contractor will first evaluate your electrical system's capacity. It involves checking your panel size (e.g., 100A or 200A) for homes. The process includes assessing infrastructure, parking layout, and conduit access for commercial properties.

Permitting and Code Compliance

Los Angeles has specific requirements for EV charger installation. Navigating the process of obtaining the required permits can be overwhelming for you. Thus, you need a contractor to secure the necessary permits. They will ensure all work aligns with the California Electrical Code and city regulations.

Charger Selection

There are different EV chargers- Level-1, Level-2, and DC fast chargers. If you don't know better, you will choose the best, i.e., DC fast charger. But the process isn't that easy. Residential driveways can work well with a Level-2 charger, while commercial and fleet applications require DC fast chargers. Depending on your needs, your contractor will help you choose the right one.

Installation and Inspection

Once approved, the installation begins. It includes electric panel upgrades, wiring, mounting the unit, and connecting it to the grid. Afterward, a city inspection is required to finalize the project. 

What Does It Cost to Install an EV Charger in Los Angeles?

EV charging station installation isn't cheap; thus, property owners should research well before diving into the project. The installation price varies significantly and depends on multiple factors, such as type of charger, site conditions, electrical capacity, etc.

  • Residential Level 2 Installations: Typically range from $1,200 to $2,500 depending on wiring distance, panel upgrades, and permits.
  • Commercial Installations: It ranges from $5,000 to over $50,000 per unit for DC Fast Chargers, especially if trenching or panel expansion is required.

A site assessment is crucial so that you can get an upfront cost. A reliable contractor includes equipment, parts, labor, permits, and additional charges and doesn't charge separately for hidden charges. If a contingency arises, they inform you of the related cost. Remember that local rebates and incentives (from LADWP, SoCal Edison, and others) can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, too.

Things to Consider When Choosing an EV Charging Station Contractor in Los Angeles

Do not choose the first contractor you come across. Research and consider the following factors before deciding:

Licensing & Experience

They should have a valid California license and considerable experience installing both residential and commercial charging stations.

EVITP Certification

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) certifies electricians with specialized EV charging knowledge. Contractors with this certification understand the complexities of EV systems and safety requirements.

Manufacturer Training

Choose a contractor who is familiar with major EVSE brands like Tesla and ChargePoint, as they are more capable of recommending and troubleshooting your system. Ask if your contractor has factory training or partnerships with charger manufacturers.

Full-Service Approach

Top-tier contractors manage the entire process: site assessment, design, permits, installation, inspection, and post-installation service. This end-to-end support ensures a seamless experience and code compliance.

Rebates and Incentives Available

Multiple rebates and incentives are available to LA property owners. Here are some of the them that you can take advantage of:

  • LADWP's Commercial EV Charger Rebate Program: Offers up to $75,000 per charging station for eligible projects.
  • CALeVIP: Offers rebates for Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers across Southern California.
  • Federal Tax Credit: Covers 30% of installation costs (up to $1,000 residential / $100,000 commercial) through 2032 under the Inflation Reduction Act.
  • Professional EV charging station contractors can help you navigate these programs and ensure your project qualifies for maximum savings.

Research them or consult your contractor to learn if you are eligible for them. It will significantly reduce your installation cost.

Final Thoughts

Los Angeles has the most EV charging stations in the USA. The infrastructure is growing alongside the increasing demand for EVs. However, the city can only ensure the efficiency and reliability of the charging stations when it has dependable contractors.

Thus, whether you are installing for residential purposes or supporting your employees or clients by installing a charging station in the commercial parking lot of your building, hiring the right EV charging station contractor in Los Angeles is necessary.  

The blog has covered everything you need to know about the installation, from cost to the process. So, hire a professional and start the installation.