Installing a home EV charger: how to save

The 30C tax credit ended June 30, 2026

The federal Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit (30C) isn’t allowed for property placed in service after June 30, 2026 (IRS). For chargers placed in service at your main home from January 1, 2023 through June 30, 2026, it was 30% of the cost up to $1,000 per charging port, and only in eligible census tracts (IRS, IRS Pub. 6027).

• If your charger was installed by June 30, 2026, you may be able to claim it on your 2026 return with Form 8911. Keep receipts for the equipment and labor.
• If it’s installed later, don’t let anyone count the federal credit in your price.

Do you really need a new panel?

The DOE says electricians can tell you whether your home has enough capacity, and some homes don’t have enough for Level 2. A qualified electrician can add circuits to provide it (U.S. DOE). Ameren recommends a site visit by a qualified electrician even if no panel upgrade is needed, and notes some homes may need a new service panel (Ameren). Before agreeing to a new panel or service upgrade, ask:

• Why the upgrade is needed, and whether a smaller fix, like a different circuit size or charging at a lower rate, would work for your driving.
• Whether the quote includes the permit, inspection and any utility work.
• Where the charger will go and whether the cord will reach your car’s charge port.

Buy a safety-certified charger

ENERGY STAR says not every charger sold online or in stores is safety certified, and some show false certifications. ENERGY STAR certified chargers meet key safety standards and use 40% less energy in standby mode (ENERGY STAR). For outdoor installs, the DOE says use outdoor-rated equipment (U.S. DOE).

Check your utility

• Ameren Illinois lists $50 off a qualified Level 2 charger and an EV Partner network of electricians (Ameren).
• ComEd customers can look at Hourly Pricing, a supply rate that charges the hourly market price, so shifting use like car charging to lower-priced hours could save money. Compare it with your current rate before you switch.
• Search for other offers with the ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder.

The DOE notes some utilities offer time-of-use rates for EV owners (U.S. DOE). Shopping for an electric supplier? See our Illinois electric supplier guide first.

Hiring an electrician

• Installations must follow local codes, and permits may be required. The DOE says EV charging is a continuous load under the National Electrical Code, and NEC Article 625 covers most charging equipment (U.S. DOE).
• Illinois licensing is set locally. In Chicago, electrical contractors need a city license (City of Chicago). Ask your town what it requires.
• Get at least two written quotes. Illinois law requires a written contract with the total price for home repair work over $1,000 (815 ILCS 513).
• Ask who pulls the permit, how long the power will be off, and what the warranty covers. Be cautious of large cash deposits and pressure to decide on the spot (FTC).