Show All Answers

1. What are the different types of EV chargers, in general?

There are three main types of chargers: Level 1, Level 2, and “fast charging.” Level 1 charging is most often used at home, Level 2 charging is common among public chargers and for fleets not requiring a fast charge. Many charging networks and charging corridors utilize fast chargers. Check out these two links to learn more:

• https://forthmobility.org/showcase/charging-options
• https://www.chargedfuture.com/different-types-of-electric-car-plugs/

Summit County charging locations have both Level 2 and fast chargers.

2. How long does it take to get a full charge on most EVs?

• Fast chargers typically have an output between 50 kilowatts (kW)– 350 kW. The County owned fast chargers have a max power output of 50 kW, which can give an electric vehicle about 225 miles of range in 90 minutes.
• Level 2 chargers typically have a max output of 5 kW – 10 kWh. The County owned Level 2 chargers have a max output of 6.6 kW – 8.7 kW, which can give vehicles about 125 miles of range in about 5 hours.
• In general, higher output chargers charge a vehicle faster, with the latest technologies providing a full charge in 10-20 minutes.

3. Are there enough chargers in the community to charge my electric vehicle?

If you have access to charging where you live, your best and most affordable option will typically be to charge your vehicle at home. For those driving around the community, there are several EV chargers throughout Summit County. By the end of 2022, the County will have 22 charging stations at County facilities. Park City Municipal has installed 44 chargers across their various facilities and parking areas. Other organizations such as UDOT and Rocky Mountain Power are in the process of installing fast chargers across the state along highway corridors. Some local businesses have installed chargers for visitors and employees. For information on charging stations near you, use the PlugShare app.

4. Do I have to pay to use County owned EV charging stations?

In 2022, Summit County will begin charging users a fee to charge at the County-owned fast charging stations. Level 2 stations will remain free of charge. Since 2016, the Summit County Council has approved funding the installation and operating costs of County-owned chargers using a combination of County budget funds and grants from utility and State partners.

5. Why do I have to pay to use the County-owned fast chargers?

Operating fast charging stations costs much more than other slower stations, in part, because the electricity costs are substantially higher to supply that much power in a short period of time. The County will begin charging $0.43 per kWh to recoup a portion of the costs to operate these chargers. With this fee, we estimate that for an electric vehicle like a Chevy Bolt, it will cost about $32 to get a full charge. This is compared to a tank of gas costing between $38 - $62 (depending on gas prices) to go the equivalent distant for a full battery charge.

6. How do I charge my EV?

While every vehicle and charger are slightly different, the basic steps remain the same.

• Unlock the charging station with the correct app, RFID card, or code. Some stations will not require this step.
• If the charging station offers multiple plug types, find the one that will fit your vehicle.
• Insert plug into the receiver on your vehicle. You may need to open the charging port door first.
• Make sure your vehicle accepts the charge. Usually there is a green light or message on the dashboard or display that will confirm this.
• Remove the plug and place it back on the charger when you are ready to leave or you have reached a full charge.
• For an example of charging with a ChargePoint brand station, click here.

Note that some charging stations are available to use for a fee, and others are available to use at no cost. This setup will often influence the required steps to start a charge.

7. What should I do if my vehicle is not charging?

1.First, check the connection and make sure the plug type is compatible with your vehicle. Make sure the plug is fully inserted and locked into the vehicle’s charging port.
2.Check to see if your vehicle needs a software update. You might not be able to use certain stations if your vehicle does not have the most current software. You might need to look in the owner's manual or call your dealership to troubleshoot this issue.
3.Call the customer service number provided in the charging app you are using, or the number displayed on the charger. Many charging stations can be troubleshooted remotely.