5 key takeaways from “Unlock Energy Savings: How Employee Engagement Drives Success” webinar.
Sustainability and energy efficiency are no longer just buzzwords; they’re vital to successful business operations. Companies prioritizing these initiatives see significant improvements in their bottom line thanks to reduced operational costs and enhanced employee engagement.
In our recent webinar, “Unlock Energy Savings: How Top Companies Benefit from Employee Engagement,” industry experts Clay Hoover from TVA EnergyRight®, Jim Reese from Ashland Inc., and Kelley Whalen from Adtran shared their insights.
Here’s a preview of the five key takeaways you need to know.
1. With Strategic Energy Management, we’re all in.
2. When it comes to employee engagement, a little recognition goes a long way.
3. Boost your triple bottom line. People. Planet. Profit.
4. Community counts.
5. Together, we can do great things.
1. With Strategic Energy Management, we’re all in.
Strategic Energy Management engages everyone — from your senior leaders to your new hires—in the good work of saving energy, meeting sustainability goals and investing in people. Plus, our team is with you all the way.
Strategic Energy Management is a free two-year program designed to help industrial businesses cut energy costs and meet sustainability goals. Strategic Energy Managment is more than just a set of energy-saving tips—it’s a comprehensive, organization-wide strategy that embeds energy efficiency into the company’s culture.
Strategic Energy Management gives businesses the tools and expertise to create a tailored, long-term energy management strategy. It’s a win-win-win with innovative solutions that drive employee engagement, environmental stewardship and profitability.
By continuously improving energy performance, companies can reduce costs and gain a competitive edge in their industry. Kelley Whalen, Energy Manager at Adtran, says, “Joining Strategic Energy Management had the most significant impact on our sustained energy savings because it involved all employees. This combination has been a game-changer for us.”
Takeaway: With 24 months of free strategic coaching valued at $100k, no capital investments and a 15% savings on energy costs — Strategic Energy Management will help you transform your business.
2. When it comes to employee engagement, a little recognition goes a long way.
When employees are actively involved in energy-saving programs, companies not only experience better outcomes and save more, but they also boost morale and foster a stronger sense of purpose within the workplace. Energy efficiency is not only good for your bottom line; it’s great for your brand reputation. Sustainability initiatives build trust and authenticity with customers and employees.
Jim Reese, Senior Operations Manager, Ashland, Inc., says, “You have to ask yourself what’s in it for your employees? Then you’ll have the buy-in you need for a successful program.”
Reese recommends involving employees in energy-saving initiatives through recognition programs, incentives and active participation in energy teams.
“You can foster a culture of responsibility and innovation by involving employees as valuable contributors to your company’s sustainability goals,” adds Reese.
Companies like Ashland Inc. have seen successful by turning even the most reluctant employees into advocates for energy efficiency. This approach connects employees to a bigger purpose and also drives long-term savings. Plus, companies that invest in employee engagement are more likely to attract and retain top-notch talent.
Takeaway: A little recognition can make a difference. Building a culture of engagement is not necessarily about big incentives; it’s about consistent recognition and empowering employees to contribute ideas.
3. Boost your triple bottom line. People. Planet. Profit.
Strategic Energy Management is designed for industrial businesses. It gives you the tools to manage energy in a coordinated and strategic way across your organization. Enjoy increased profitability and create a competitive advantage, while reducing environmental
impact and supporting your community.
“Balancing the triple bottom line — people, planet and profit — when implementing energy-saving strategies is the key to success,” says Whalen. “This approach has led to significant energy savings at Adtran.”
Takeaway: Successful energy management requires aligning the interests of employees (people), environmental responsibility (planet), and financial performance (profit). By doing so, companies can create a sustainable and profitable business model. 
4. Community counts.
TVA EnergyRight for Business & Industry partners with local power companies, contractors and businesses to strengthen the communities we serve. We do that by ensuring that companies and industries in our communities have access to the energy information and resources they need to thrive.
To help support the places we live, we offer incentives for energy upgrades, revitalization programs and more. That’s why Strategic Energy Management participants can choose to “save it forward” by making an optional tax-deductible donation with a portion of their verified energy savings.
Reese explains,“ It’s not just about saving energy; it’s about making a long-term impact on the community.”
TVA EnergyRight’s Small Business Uplift initiative assists small businesses in local communities with energy-related upgrades and resources. Our School Uplift supports public schools in the region by offering energy efficiency training and grants that reduce energy costs and improve the quality of the learning environment.
Takeaway: For more inspiring stories from the communities we serve, visit The Current, where you can see firsthand how energy efficiency makes a real difference in the lives of people in our communities.
5. Together, we can do great things.
Here are some other resources available to help businesses cut costs and save more energy.
Compressed Air Training
Air compressors are energy-intensive and costly. Our free online training sessions can help companies lower costs by 15-25% annually.
Incentives
In partnership with your local power company, we offer financial incentives on qualifying technologies to help businesses reach their energy goals.
Demand Response
Qualified Business & Industry customers can earn credits or incentives while making sure the Valley has the power it needs.
Takeaway: Your business could enjoy incentives for qualifying energy projects of up to $3 million per TVA fiscal year. Learn how at EnergyRight.com/incentives.
These insights remind us just how important employee engagement can be for a company’s bottom line. With an energy efficiency program, businesses can unlock significant energy savings, enhance employee satisfaction and contribute positively to the environment and community.
Ready to transform your business?
Explore how TVA EnergyRight® can help you achieve your energy goals. Contact us today.
Q&A with Clay Hoover, Jim Reese and Kelley Whalen: How employee engagement drives energy savings.
In our webinar, “Unlock Energy Savings: How Top Companies Benefit from Employee Engagement,” industry experts discuss innovative energy-saving programs and incentives available to businesses.
Here are some of the key insights that came out of this conversation with Clay Hoover, PE, Senior Program Manager, TVA EnergyRight® for Business and Industry, who recently sat down with Adtran’s Kelley Whalen and Ashland’s Jim Reese to discuss employee engagement.
Read on to learn more practical tips and real-world examples to help your business achieve its energy goals:
- The benefits of Strategic Energy Management
- Ideas for how to engage employees through recognition programs, incentives and active participation
- How Strategic Energy Management helps businesses secure capital for energy efficiency projects
- The community connection: reinvesting energy savings to support local initiatives
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. The views and opinions expressed throughout belong to the interviewees and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Q: Clay, what is TVA EnergyRight’s Strategic Energy Management program, and how does it work?
A: Strategic Energy Management is a free two-year program that helps industrial businesses cut energy costs, boost profits and meet sustainability goals through expert-guided efficiency improvements. It gives you the tools needed to manage your energy in a coordinated way across your organization, helping your company increase profitability, create a competitive advantage, reduce environmental impact and support your community.
Q: Jim, what strategies have you used to engage your employees in energy efficiency?
A: Energy management can be a tough job, but it’s a whole lot easier when you build a team and get employees involved. Progress in energy efficiency is incremental — one step at a time. Over the years, we’ve tried different things, like employee incentive and recognition programs. When it comes to getting employees to support your program, you have to find your most stubborn naysayer and make that employee your ally. It comes down to this — what’s in it for your employees?
Q: Kelley, how does your team approach employee engagement?
A: At Adtran, we’ve had an energy program in place since 2005 that focused on employee awareness, but it was nothing like what we have now since joining the Strategic Energy Management program. Previously, we relied on infographics and word of mouth, and that was about it. However, once we became involved in Strategic Energy Management, we took our efforts to another level. We began using digital signage, corporate emails, banners and blogs to communicate more effectively and build credibility.
We also make sure to send out corporate emails that build confidence by sharing our successes. Sharing success is one of the most important things you can do to engage employees. People like to be part of a winning team. It resonates with employees when you have success, make improvements and demonstrate energy savings without making people uncomfortable.
Q: Kelley, what’s the most essential key to success for an energy-saving program?
A: To me, the triple bottom line — people, planet, profit — needs to be balanced. I refer to this as the sustainability zone, where all three aspects align to make sense. For instance, on a 90-degree day, I could use my control system to set everyone’s temperature to 80 degrees, which might be good for profit and the planet, but it wouldn’t be good for those working in those conditions. All three — people, planet, and profit—must align for a strategy to be effective. When we build credibility, we get the engagement and buy-in we need for the program to succeed.
Q: Jim, what about incentives for employees? Has that strategy worked for you?
A: We introduced an energy incentive program that worked pretty well. There was a fundraiser in this part of Western Kentucky, where they built a house and sold raffle tickets for $100 each, giving people a chance to win the house. We decided to tie this to our energy program. Anyone who submitted a viable energy-saving suggestion that could save at least $500 would receive a $100 gift card and a chance to win a house worth $300,000. Although nobody from our program won the house, it was an effective way to encourage participation.
Ultimately, we learned that the most important factor is not always significant incentives but small, incremental recognition. A simple pat on the back and a “thank you” can be very motivating.
We have a safety recognition program tied to environmental goals, including energy savings, which is integral to our sustainability goals. If an employee makes an energy-saving suggestion, they earn points. These points can accumulate toward extra vacation time, recognition items or even donations to charity. Last year, we donated over 1,500 meals to the community through this program.
Q: We saw the infographic you presented earlier, Kelley. Could you share a little bit about its origin? Did you build it yourself, or was it a collaborative effort with your energy team?
A: I was inspired by other infographics that I had seen at industry events, and I wanted to see if we could also use an infographic to convey our message. So, I involved our marketing team early on. I told them I wanted an infographic, and they helped create it.
Now, we update it yearly. It’s an easy way to convey our message. For example, in the top right corner of the infographic, you can see that we’ve saved 186 million kilowatts since 2005. In dollar terms, that’s about $14 million of energy costs that Adtran didn’t have to spend, all because we made small changes and implemented energy projects.
Q: Jim, what are some of the challenges you’ve encountered securing capital for energy efficiency projects, and how has Strategic Energy Management helped?
A: Securing capital for energy projects can be challenging, but Strategic Energy Management has helped us justify these projects by coupling energy savings with sustainability goals to make our case. For example, we had a project using Strategic Energy Management to show the environmental benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which helped us secure the necessary funding. It’s all about finding the right opportunities and building a strong case for investment.
Q: Kelley, how do employees at Adtran contribute to identifying energy savings?
A: Initially, it was just me, but after joining Strategic Energy Management, we engaged an energy team of everyday employees who provided valuable input. For example, one team member suggested creating an internal energy connect page, which has become a central hub for our energy policy, infographic and live energy data. Another example is when we moved a lab to a new location, reducing the number of cabinets from 40 to 12, thanks to the energy team’s involvement. These contributions have been crucial to our success.
Q: Jim, how do you encourage employees to share their ideas for energy savings?
A: We have a cross-functional energy team that meets regularly, and we also conduct audits with employees. By involving employees directly in these audits, they often come up with valuable suggestions. For example, one operator came up with a simple solution to prevent hoses from freezing in the winter, which ended up saving a lot of energy. It’s about going to the employees and actively soliciting their ideas.
Q: Jim, how does Ashland incorporate community involvement into its energy-saving initiatives?
A: We believe in reinvesting our energy savings back into the community, particularly in local schools. We’ve partnered with TVA to provide educational opportunities for at-risk students, helping them pursue careers in STEM fields. For example, one student who attended our diversity celebration is now working with us after completing an engineering degree. It’s not just about saving energy; it’s about making a long-term impact on the community.
Q: Kelley, how does Adtran use its energy savings to support the community?
A: We’re part of the Save It Forward initiative through Strategic Energy Management, where we commit to donating a portion of our energy savings to a local school. In our first year, we saved 1.9 million kilowatts, translating to about $95,000; half of that will go toward the school. They’ll use the funds for an energy or air quality project to benefit students. We’re happy to give back and help improve the community.
Q: What has been the most impactful project for your energy savings, Kelley?
A: Joining Strategic Energy Management had the most significant impact because it involved all employees. We could combine all these efforts with our demand load shed project, which built our energy dashboard. The load shed project automatically skims the peak off our energy use without employees even noticing, and the energy dashboard allows everyone to see our live energy data. This combination has been a game-changer for us.
Let’s talk.
Do you want to learn more about how employee engagement can be a powerful tool in driving energy savings?
Contact us here to start the conversation.
Clay Hoover, PE, Senior Program Manager, TVA EnergyRight® for Business and Industry
Clay has been with TVA for more than 15 years. In his current role, he leads the design and operations of Strategic Energy Management programs for TVA’s commercial and industrial customers. Clay builds innovative programs that leverage energy efficiency to improve schools and communities in the Valley.
Jim Reese, Senior Operations Manager, Ashland, Inc.
Jim is the Senior Operations Manager with Ashland, Inc., in Calvert City, Kentucky. With more than 40 years of experience, Jim has a wealth of operations and energy management knowledge. He’s been with Ashland for nearly 28 years, where he started an energy program 25 years ago. Ashland is now a global chemicals company with a significant focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. Over the years, the company has saved nearly 12 trillion BTUs and over $42 million in energy costs and reduced CO2 emissions by 58,000 tons.
Kelley Whalen, Energy Manager, Adtran
Kelley is the Energy Manager for Adtran in Huntsville, Alabama. He’s a recognized leader in the field, having won multiple AEE awards, including International Energy Manager of the Year. Kelley brings more than 31 years of experience in energy management and a unique approach to engaging his employees in energy efficiency. Since 2005, he’s helped Adtran reduce energy consumption on campus by nearly 50%.
People, planet, profit: Boosting your bottom line through employee engagement.
By managing resources responsibly, you can reduce waste, boost efficiency and save money. Sustainability in business isn’t just about being a good neighbor to the planet—it’s also about making your business run better. While you’re streamlining your operations, you’re not just helping the environment; you’re also saving on energy costs..
Read on to discover the key ways our Strategic Energy Management (SEM) program can help your business gain a competitive advantage, plus:
- Potentially increase profitability by lowering energy costs.
- Achieve sustainability goals by lowering your carbon footprint.
- Improve employee engagement.
A program with purpose.
Brought to you by TVA EnergyRight® and your local power company, SEM is a free, two-year program helping industrial businesses cut energy costs, boost profits and meet sustainability goals through expert-guided efficiency improvements. Strategic Energy Management provides your business with tools to manage energy in a coordinated and strategic way across your organization — helping your company increase profitability, create a competitive advantage, reduce environmental impact and support your community.
Employee engagement is another significant benefit of sustainability initiatives like Strategic Energy Management. We’ve seen the impacts firsthand. When employees are actively involved in energy-saving programs, not only do companies experience better outcomes and save more, but they also boost morale and create a stronger sense of purpose within the workplace.
And that’s what Strategic Energy Management is all about — offering businesses innovative solutions that can drive employee engagement, environmental stewardship and profitability, creating a win-win-win for everyone.
“When we build credibility, we get the engagement and buy-in we need for the program to succeed,” says Kelley Whalen, the Energy Manager at Adtran and panelist in our webinar, “Unlock Energy Savings: How Employee Engagement Drives Success.”
The power of strategy: How does Strategic Energy Management work?
Think of Strategic Energy Management as your personal energy advisor—here to help you harness the power of strategy. At its core, Strategic Energy Management is more than just reducing energy bills; it’s about embedding energy efficiency into your company’s culture.
Instead of one-off projects or quick fixes, Strategic Energy Management focuses on creating a comprehensive, long-term strategy tailored to your business’s unique needs. This approach helps you uncover hidden inefficiencies, set meaningful goals and continuously improve your energy performance over time. Plus, TVA EnergyRight provides Strategic Energy Management consulting services valued at over $100k to qualifying companies at no cost.
Jim Reese, Senior Operations Manager for Ashland, Inc. and webinar panelist says, “Securing capital for energy projects can be challenging, but Strategic Energy Management has helped us justify these projects by coupling energy savings with sustainability goals to make our case.”
The benefits: More than just lower bills.
Sure, saving money on energy bills is a big win—but it’s just the beginning. By participating in Strategic Energy Management, you can also:
Improve operational efficiency.
Uncover inefficiencies and streamline your processes for better performance.
Boost and sustain employee engagement.
Getting your team involved in energy-saving initiatives improves morale and fosters a culture of sustainability.
Reduce environmental impacts.
Cutting down on energy waste makes a positive contribution to the environment, which also appeals to eco-conscious customers.
Strengthen your brand.
Energy efficiency is good for your bottom line and your brand reputation. Sustainability initiatives build trust and authenticity with customers and employees.
Ongoing support and expertise.
We’re all in this together. You’ll have access to expert guidance every step of the way. Our team of energy professionals will work closely with you to identify opportunities, set achievable goals and track your progress.
We can also help you save money and meet efficiency goals with energy incentives for businesses from TVA EnergyRight® and your local power company. These financial incentives on qualifying technologies can help businesses reach their energy goals.
Callout box:
FREE energy assessments for customers using one or more megawatts.
Link to energy assessments contact form.
Celebrate the wins — big and small.
One of the best parts of the Strategic Energy Management journey is celebrating the milestones along the way. Whether it’s a significant reduction in energy consumption or a small tweak that leads to unexpected savings, every win is worth celebrating. And we’re here to celebrate with you—because every step forward is a step toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
Ready to transform your business?
Take control of your energy use and unlock the benefits of energy savings with Strategic Energy Management. Together, we can create a more efficient, sustainable and profitable future for your business.
Let’s continue the conversation.
Connect with us and learn more about resources available to your business. Start the conversation here.
Email: Hoover, George Claiborne gchoover@tva.gov
8 reasons why seasonal residential HVAC maintenance is a good idea.
It seems like only yesterday we were sharing tips and suggestions for preventing an AC emergency. (Spoiler alert: spring AC tune-ups are also a great way to keep your system in peak cooling form). We know you’re enjoying a break from the heat but before you know it, it’s going to be time to break into the heating season.
It’s just as important to take care of your heating system as it is to take care of your AC. If it’s not already on your fall to-do list, now’s the time to perform — or schedule! — a routine residential HVAC maintenance service for your furnace or heat pump.
Need a nudge in the right direction? Here are 8 reasons why seasonal HVAC system tune-ups are a smart move.
#1 — Avoid costly emergency calls.
October is the perfect time to make sure your heating system is in tip-top shape before the first frost knocks on your door. Licensed and insured heating and cooling contractors not only clean your system, but they’ll also make sure it’s in good working order. Preventive care can help you avoid costly emergency calls in the heart of winter.
If you’re a DIY type, and you plan on performing your own mini check-up, check out our HVAC checklist before you get started!
It’s worth noting that a professional tune-up typically includes all the above, plus an examination of electrical connections and wiring, thermostat calibration, part lubrication, safety inspection, burner assembly (for combustion systems) inspection, defrost cycle and reversing valve (for electric heat pumps) inspection, and system airflow and efficiency measurements.
Not sure who to call for your tune-up? Check out our Quality Contractor Network to search for TVA-vetted HVAC pros in your area.
#2 — Improve energy efficiency.
Heating systems that aren’t properly maintained can be less efficient and may be driving up your energy bills. During a routine residential HVAC maintenance call, technicians inspect, clean and optimize your system to make sure it’s running as efficiently as possible. It’s better for the environment and it’s better for your wallet.
#3 — Enhance indoor air quality.
Typically, fall maintenance includes checking and changing air filters. Clean air filters help your system run more efficiently and they can help keep dust, allergens and other particles from circulating around your home, leading to a healthier indoor environment.
Changing the air filter inside your home frequently is an easy way to help your system and improve indoor air quality. Plus, it’s easy to do it yourself! If you’re not sure how to do it, ask your contractor, they’ll be happy to show you what you need to do. For more tips on improving your indoor air quality, check out this article. Or, you can take a quick peek at our DIY videos for a quick how-to.
#4 — Extend the lifespan of your heating system.
Regular maintenance is a great opportunity to identify small concerns before they become major emergency problems. Tune-ups can minimize the likelihood of costly emergency service calls and help ensure that your system keeps you warm when you need it. When your system is running efficiently and smoothly, it’ll last longer, too.
#5 — Ensure safety.
Heating systems, especially older models, can pose health and safety risks. Fall residential HVAC maintenance is a great opportunity for your heating and cooling experts to look for leaks or check electrical connections, inspect heat exchangers and make sure that all safety mechanisms are working properly.
#6 — Take advantage of our rebates.
If you have an electric heat pump, you may be eligible for a $50 rebate from TVA EnergyRight and your local power company.
#7 — Peace of mind.
If your heating and cooling equipment is more than 10 years old, and your utility bills are going up, a professional inspection is the way to go. Get advice you can trust from a member of the Quality Contractor Network. If it is time to consider a new system, be sure to ask your contractor about our HVAC rebates! For more information on whether or not it’s time to replace your home’s HVAC system, check out this guide from ENERGY STAR.
#8 — Save money.
Heating system tune-ups are the perfect example of spending money to save more money. Avoiding emergency service calls, improving energy efficiency and prolonging the functional lifespan of your heating system are all great ways to save money. When you add a $50 rebate into the mix, the savings are even sweeter. Plus, the peace of mind is priceless.
Looking for more free and easy fixes to keep your home warmer for less? This blog has you covered.
Terms and conditions apply. All TVA EnergyRight rebate-eligible upgrades must be installed by an approved member of the Quality Contractor Network and meet TVA Standards effective on installation date. All measures, except window replacement, are eligible for program financing. Mini split 17 SEER2 or higher must replace the existing primary electric heat source or be installed in a newly finished area of the home (e.g., bonus room, addition, sunroom). Duct sealing, repair, insulation or replacement must be for existing or replacement HVAC systems. Window replacement must replace existing unit(s). Attic insulation upgrades eligible for the $500 rebate must be completed and the rebate submitted by your QCN member by September 30, 2025.
How electric vehicles can help keep electricity rates low and improve grid resiliency.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for change.
The rapidly growing electric transportation industry is providing us with an extraordinary opportunity to change how we think about transportation, energy costs, decarbonization and the resiliency of our electric grid.
It’s well documented that electric vehicles produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions, have a lower overall carbon footprint and produce fewer local pollutants than gasoline-powered vehicles. EVs are easier to budget for, too, because electricity rates across the country are lower and more consistent than gas prices. And with fewer moving parts and fluids, routine maintenance costs are significantly lower for EV drivers.
Big-picture data shows that more and more Americans are buying EVs. The Energy Information Administration found that U.S. sales of hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery-only electric vehicles (BEVs) reached their highest share of total light-duty vehicle (LDV) sales during the third and fourth quarters of 2023 at 17.9%. EV sales in the U.S. increased by 60% from 1 million in 2022 to 1.6 million in 2023.
Not only that, but we’re no longer living in a chocolate-and-vanilla EV world. Today’s drivers have more shapes, sizes and flavors of EVs to choose from than ever before. Automotive manufacturers added 20 new BEV models last year, bringing the BEV total to 70. It’s worth noting that half of the new BEV models were crossover vehicles, a hugely popular market segment that has more than doubled its share of total LDV sales since 2014.
How EVs help reduce electricity costs.
With zero tailpipe emissions, lower fueling costs and lower overall cost of ownership, electric vehicles enable drivers to save money while helping preserve the environment. While this is impressive, EVs can also drive electricity costs down and improve grid resiliency. And when we say “drive electricity costs down,” we’re talking about driving costs down for everyone — not just those who refuel with electricity rather than gasoline.
Every time a new EV owner plugs in and pays for electricity, local power companies may benefit from a new source of revenue. As the number of EVs on the road — and across the Valley region — increases, so does the power company’s net revenue. This new income is reinvested in the community; it not only helps keep electricity rates low and stable, but it can also be used to pay for infrastructure upgrades that improve reliability, support local job growth and fund programs for families with limited means or fixed-income customers.
EVs apply a noticeable downward pressure on rates across the board, and a recent study from Synapse Energy Economics confirms this, finding that EVs increased utility revenues more than they increased costs.
Adjusting for utility expenditures related to EV programs, the study’s authors estimate that between 2011 and 2021, EV drivers across the country contributed $2.44 billion more in revenues than associated costs. This translates to lower electricity rates for everyone, and these findings hold true across the entire country.
Easy ways to maximize downward pressure on electricity rates.
There are several easy ways EV drivers and utility providers can maximize downward pressure on electricity rates and help lower energy costs.
#1: Charge overnight when electricity demand is low.
The best time to charge an EV is when the demand for electricity is low. In the seven-state Valley region, charging overnight is generally the best time. There is one exception to that rule, though! During winter cold snaps, avoid charging during the very coldest hours of the day.
This simple behavioral change reduces the need for TVA to generate electricity from high-cost or carbon-intensive sources — or purchase expensive power generated outside of the region. Overnight charging is an easy way for EV drivers to do their part in lowering electricity costs for everyone.
#2: Scheduled charging with networked-connected, smart EV chargers.
Most drivers don’t care when their car charges as long as it’s ready to go when they are. Networked EV chargers enable owners to schedule their EV to charge overnight, at varied times, to spread the charging load around.
Networked chargers are especially handy in areas where power companies offer discounted time-of-use or off-peak rates. If your charger doesn’t have this capability, your car probably does! Whether or not off-peak rates apply, however, networked chargers can be programmed to charge at different times throughout the night, helping keep the grid stable and balanced while maximizing any available rate discounts.
Although off-peak, time-of-day rates are far from standardized across the country, they have the potential to benefit EV owners, their neighbors, entire communities and local power companies. When people charge EVs at times when they’re not adding huge marginal costs to the utility, the power company benefits from the revenue while its customers enjoy the savings.
When power companies incentivize off-peak charging with lower rates, they effectively keep generation and distribution costs down, help customers benefit from a cleaner energy mix and reduce carbon emissions.
#3: Managed charging with smart electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE).
Managed charging with smart EVSE presents yet another way for drivers and fleet managers to make sure that charging happens when costs are lower and the energy mix is cleaner. Not only does this lower an EV’s overall emissions, but once again, it also exerts significant downward pressure on electricity rates.
Smart EVSE units dynamically adjust the maximum power an EV will charge with. They can also automatically shift charging sessions to different times, depending on the status of the grid. This helps ensure that charging happens at optimal times. It also staggers the load, preventing accidental peaks.
Although we’re not there yet, let’s take this a step further and think about a future where we could send out a “green signal” — when renewable power is in abundance and must be used — and our cars, dryers, dishwashers and other energy-intensive devices could charge, dry, clean and cool for dramatically reduced rates.
#4: Reset the refueling mindset and right-size your charging station.
Another way to keep downward pressure on rates is simply resetting the fueling mindset to topping off, rather than filling up. In other words, drivers shouldn’t wait for the battery to dip below 20% before charging. A little bit of charging multiple times per week is far better than charging from empty to full once a week.
Topping off helps improve grid stability by minimizing energy peaks, and it’s better for the vehicle’s battery, too. Ideally, an EV’s battery level should stay between 20% and 80%. Plus, when you recharge a little at a time, the charging station can be less powerful (lower amperage) which makes installation easier and cheaper. Right-sizing your charging station saves drivers money while lessening the impact on the grid.
The news is good, and the energy forecast is bright.
The good news is that with some care and consideration, EV charging will meet customer demand and needs at low-power times of the day that are grid-friendly. This means cheaper fueling for the customer, lower power costs for their neighbors and reduced strain on the grid. It’s better for everyone, essentially. Historically, utilities have been exceptionally good at planning for and providing cheap, safe, reliable and clean electricity since the 1930s. It’s what they do.
That said, it’s a shift for utilities — big and small — because load growth has been flat for so long. It’s not anymore, and it’s not just because of changes in transportation. We’re seeing new load, building load, industrial load, data center load and more. Although it’s new to each of us, it’s not unexpected; our utilities have handled it before (think about how they rose to the challenge of electric air conditioning), and they can do it again. We just have to rise to the challenge and see the many opportunities for positive growth that EVs are affording us.
About EPRI
With a foundational mission to benefit society, EPRI delivers independent, objective thought leadership and industry expertise to help the energy sector identify issues, technology gaps, and broader needs that can be addressed through effective, collaborative research and development programs.
The TVA EnergyRight EV Team works diligently to make sure the people of the Tennessee Valley region have fact-based information about electric vehicles so they can decide how EVs fit into their lives. TVA is collaborating with state agencies, local power companies and other partners to pave the way for EV adoption in the region. This includes developing the Fast Charge Network, which will place public fast chargers at least every 50 miles along the interstates and major highways across TVA’s seven-state service area by 2026.
About our EV blogs: We know that big changes — like purchasing a vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline — can lead to big questions. And that’s why we’re doing our best to provide expert, unbiased answers to your pressing EV questions. Each of our posts will include links to trusted external sources like automotive magazines, thought leaders, research-backed studies, government agencies and more. Feel free to click around!
DISCLAIMER: No TVA endorsement of any specific vehicle, car manufacturer, electric charger or other equipment is intended or implied. This site’s content (including, without limitation, references and links to third-party information) is based on information provided at the time of publishing, and TVA makes no warranty therein.
EV tax credits, policy perks and more.
Q&A with Ingrid Malmgren, policy director for Plug In America.
Electric vehicle (EV) tax credits and rebates help make buying an EV more accessible. However, understanding which vehicles qualify and how the credits work can be confusing! To help make sense of the changing landscape — and make it easier for you to enjoy a $7,500 tax credit —, we chatted with Ingrid Malmgren, one of the industry’s leading policy experts and an early EV adopter.
Malmgren, policy director for Plug In America, has been riding the EV wagon for nearly a decade, enjoying transportation that produces zero tailpipe emissions. She leased her first EV in 2016 and has been enjoying gasoline-free rides ever since.
During our illuminating conversation, she shared the joys of driving a “zippy” electric vehicle, the satisfaction of living a zero tailpipe emissions lifestyle, and the exciting possibilities that EVs could provide for energy security and grid stability.
And yes, she also shared some helpful resources for understanding the ins and outs of EV rebates! Read on for an EV tax credit checklist and for Malmgren’s take on:
- How EV policy changes are paving the way for job growth, EV adoption, and more affordable electric car options.
- How EV tax credits work and how you can determine which cars are eligible.
- How the EV tax credit applies to purchasing or leasing.
- How the 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit can help offset the cost of home charger installation
- How EV policy can change over time.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. The views and opinions expressed throughout belong to the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of Plug In America or Tennessee Valley Authority. Consult a licensed tax professional for advice on your particular circumstances.
TVA EnergyRight: So what got you so hooked on EVs?
Malmgren: My first project was a vehicle-to-grid road map. And I worked with a team for NYSERDA.1 I was just fascinated at what an incredible role these mobile energy storage devices, these batteries on wheels that are EVs, could play in fitting into the grid. I remember going to visit our transmission provider2 and it looked like Star Trek in there!
That, and it was just so liberating to be zooming around in one. EVs are so zippy and fun to drive. And to just not have to worry about gas and fuel.3 I never even look at the mileage unless I’m road-tripping – it just feels infinite by comparison. Being able to zoom around in the silence and not having to worry about tailpipe emissions and gasoline is liberating.
TVA EnergyRight: What would you want folks to know about EVs?
Malmgren: Oh, boy. First of all, drive an EV, try it! April was Drive Electric Earth Month and Drive Electric Week is in the fall. There are events all over the country, including Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia and the Carolinas. You can drive EVs and talk to people who own EVs and hear about their experiences in your community. I think once people drive EVs they’ll see that they’re so quiet, they feel so solid and they’re so powerful. And they require so little maintenance. They cost a lot less to operate and maintain. That’s another big, important thing.
TVA EnergyRight: Historically, tax credits or rebates helped people make more energy efficient choices. Can you break today’s EV credits down for our readers?
Malmgren: So the first thing I would say about the federal EV tax credits is that they can seem complicated! Kelly Blue Book has a resource specifically for EVs by state.
In broad strokes, there are a number of different criteria that the buyer and the vehicle would have to meet. And those criteria are going to change over the life of these EV tax credits, through 2032. Things like your income, the amount of critical minerals in the battery, the components in the battery, the MSRP of the vehicle, and where the battery or vehicle is assembled.4 It’s really hard to track that at the consumer level.
I encourage buyers to check out the fueleconomy.gov website. It has been developed specifically to help people understand which vehicles are eligible. Otherwise, it would be really challenging for consumers to navigate this.
As of right now, in 2024, you can get the incentive right up front. So as you’re looking at your vehicle price, you say, OK, this new car is $44,000. I can get $7,500 off up front, reducing the total cost of the car.
Leases go through the Commercial Clean Vehicle tax credit, which does not have a lot of the same criteria that the regular tax credits have. So if you’re interested in an electric vehicle that is not on the fueleconomy.gov list or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that’s not on those lists on fueleconomy.gov, there may be the option to lease that vehicle and the OEM would pass that tax credit on to you through the lease.
TVA EnergyRight: That’s a great resource and great information! Thank you for sharing. Do you have any other insights or information about the possible $4,000 tax credit for used cars?
Malmgren: About two-thirds of people typically buy used cars. We are a long-term family of used car buyers! Somewhere along the line, we read a Consumer Reports5 article that said if you buy a two-year-old car, you get the best bang for your buck because you have the most life left, but you also save a lot of money. The fueleconomy.gov website has a tool for used EVs too.
We also put together a shopping list for consumers, because rebates are so confusing!6 It’s really distilled down and it covers what consumers need to know. The other big thing about the federal tax credits is that you have to purchase from a dealer or a dealership. Some dealerships are facilitating private party sales and passing on the tax credit for used EVs that costs less than $25,000. But you need to make sure that the dealership is registered with the IRS Energy Credits Online.7
Download our EV tax credit checklist
TVA EnergyRight: One of the lesser-publicized aspects of EV tax credits is the 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. Can you tell us more about this credit and the implications it could have on the EV charging infrastructure and how this credit can help people purchase and install a charging station for their EV?
Malmgren: We’re still waiting on some guidance from the IRS on 30C, but they did recently come out with guidance about where the stations must be located. It’s very geographically dependent. If you’re interested in installing a home charger, you can look up your address8 to find out whether you’re eligible.
You could get up to 30% or $1,000 for your charging station at home. For commercial entities, they can get up to $100,000 for public or business chargers. One of the other things about all the tax credits is that they are either transferable or they are direct pay. This means that you do not have to have a tax liability to qualify. That’s huge! It’s an important piece because if you’re retired, you’re on Social Security, you have a fixed income, you don’t pay much in income taxes, but you want to get an EV, you can get the full amount of the federal tax credit, even if you don’t pay that much in taxes over the course of the year.
This also means that if you’re a municipality, a municipal utility, a local nonprofit, a charity, or a church, you can take advantage of the tax credit to install chargers even if you don’t pay taxes.
TVA EnergyRight: What are some pieces of legislation or policy that you’ve worked on that you have a sense of pride of accomplishment in?
Malmgren: I think the tax credits are a big one. We’ve been advocating for them and continue to advocate for them to be as user-friendly as possible and work hard to advocate for them to be as broadly applicable as possible, particularly for people who might not otherwise be able to afford to get into an electric vehicle. Gas prices are so volatile. They’re just all over the place. Being able to drive an electric vehicle as your daily driver can save you a lot of money on fuel. You can also save a lot of money on repairs and maintenance. Having an EV can be a mechanism to help elevate folks economically. We’ve been advocating hard for tax credits that don’t require people to have a tax liability and to be as easy to use as possible.
TVA EnergyRight: What’s on your EV policy wish list?
Malmgren: If we could keep making the grid cleaner and cleaner, that would be great! One of the big strengths of EVs is that they can charge when the sun is shining, the wind is blowing, or at night. They’re ideal for energy arbitrage. There are times when it’s good to get rid of electricity because there’s too much on the system. Imagine if there were times when it’s actually less expensive to give the power away than it is to try to deal with the excess power on the grid. Having incentives like that would just be phenomenal.
Time-of-use rates9 have a great deal of potential. But even those aren’t being rolled out as widely as one would think. For example, I am in a rural electric co-op territory10 and there aren’t any time-of-use rates available for EV charging. I charge at night typically, but there’s no incentive to do so.
TVA EnergyRight: Good point. Yes, home electricity rates vary by local utility. We discussed this a bit in “Charging your EV at home: Fueling where you live.” Here in the Valley region, for example, Middle Tennessee Electric provides discounted energy overnight to charge your EV. We encourage residents to check with their local power company rate options.
Malmgren: Definitely! And then the third piece is simultaneous to these other two, really working to push for a circular battery economy.
EV batteries are so valuable after they leave an EV that they tend to be used for the grid or some other purpose.11 Having these circular economy provisions in place and updating mining laws at the same time would just really be the icing on the cake to make sure that we have a really clean transportation future that’s also ethical and responsible.
What policy director doesn’t want to come up with their dream scenario? It’s great to be asked that, thank you!
¹ New York State Energy Research & Development Authority. You can read the 2015 report, which analyzes the challenges and opportunities that EVs pose to the electric grid, here.
² “Transmission provider” is fancy industry-speak for your local power company’s control room.
³ Fun fact: Malmgren’s first EV had a range of 83 miles. “I did get a little range anxiety from time to time,” she noted with a laugh. “Especially in the winters in Vermont. I have since moved on to a EV with a longer range!”
⁴ Credit-eligible EVs must be assembled in North America.
⁵ Malgrem could have been referencing this article from 2019, “What’s So Great About Used Cars?” but this article from 2024 also tackles the new vs. used question: Should You Buy a New, Certified Pre-Owned, or Used Car?
⁶ The “we” Malmgren is referencing here is Plug In America. You can find their “Federal Tax Credit Checklist for EV Shoppers” here.
⁷ Dealerships can register their business using the IRS’s Energy Credits Online portal.
⁸ You can determine whether or not your home or business is eligible for the 30C tax credit using the U.S. Department of Energy’s 30C Tax Credit Eligibility Locator.
⁹ Time-of-use (TOU) or Time-of-day (TOD) rates are used to incentivize customers to use energy when the cost of generating electricity is less expensive and to disincentivize energy consumption when the cost of generating electricity is high. One great example of TOU rates is Middle Tennessee Electric’s Nite Flex rate which discounts electricity at night, potentially saving EV drivers even more on charging. Check with your local power company to see if it offers time-of-use rates.
¹⁰ Malmgren lives in New England.
¹¹ Used EV batteries can provide backup power and power charging stations. Some companies are upcycling EV batteries to store power at solar or wind farms.
About Plug-in America: Plug In America is a nonprofit organization with a mission to accelerate the transition to affordable and accessible plug-in vehicles and charging through education, advocacy and research. The opinions and recommendations expressed in this interview belong to Ingrid Malmgren and may not express the views and opinions of her employer or TVA.
About our EV blogs: We know that big changes – like purchasing a vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline – can lead to big questions. And that’s why we’re doing our best to provide expert, unbiased answers to your pressing EV questions. Each of our posts will include links to trusted external sources like automotive magazines, thought leaders, research-backed studies, government agencies and more. Feel free to click around!
DISCLAIMER: No Tennessee Valley Authority endorsement of any specific vehicle, car manufacturer, electric charger or other equipment is intended or implied. This site’s content (including, without limitation, references and links to third-party information) is based on information provided at the time of publishing, and TVA makes no warranty therein.
7 reasons why HVAC tune-ups are a smart call
Schedule some TLC for your heat pump today
Preventive HVAC maintenance isn’t the most glamorous of tasks. We get it. And we know that looking up a trusted contractor from the Quality Contractor Network won’t set your pulse a-thumping like booking a rental on the beach, finding the perfect thrift-store treasure or nabbing tix to that hot concert everyone’s buzzing about, but it can help keep you nice and cozy once winter sets in.
Now’s the perfect time to get on your contractor’s calendar too, because once winter rolls around, they’ll be plenty busy taking emergency calls from people who weren’t as diligent about maintenance as you are!
Need a little more than “calendars” and “cozy” to convince you to take the HVAC tune-up plunge? Here it goes:
1. Get a $50 rebate from TVA EnergyRight.
We’re taking the sting out of tune-up costs with a $50 rebate on your electric HVAC system tune-up. Don’t have electric heat? Make a note to schedule your AC tune-up in the spring.
2. Extend the life of your HVAC system.
If recent weather trends continue, odds are pretty good that you’ll soon be turning your heat and AC on between now and November, and that can be tough on your heating and cooling system. Regularly scheduled tune-ups help keep your unit in tip-top working condition as long as mechanically possible. And the longer your system lasts, the happier and more comfortable you’ll be.
According to ENERGY STAR, a typical maintenance checkup should include:
- Checking thermostat settings.
- Tightening all electrical connections.
- Lubricating all moving parts.
- Checking and inspecting the condensate drain.
- Checking system controls.
- Cleaning blower components and the evaporator and condenser coils.
- Verifying refrigerant level.
3. Improve energy efficiency.
Routine HVAC tune-ups also help maintain your unit’s energy efficiency. When your heating and cooling system is running at peak efficiency, you’ll keep your utility bills down, help out the environment and make sure that everyone in your house is as cool (or hot) as they think they are.
Get a free $20 gift card (for assessments completed on or before December 31, 202) and energy-saving kit. Take our free DIY Home Energy Assessment to find out where your home is using (and losing) energy.
4. Honor thy warranty.
With any luck, your HVAC unit came with a warranty. Did you know that some manufacturers may require you to maintain the unit? Fortunately, regular tune-ups conducted by a TVA-vetted member of the Quality Contractor Network take care of that pesky requirement while minimizing the likelihood of experiencing catastrophic equipment failure. A win-win, if we do say so ourselves.
5. Enjoy consistent warmth.
A heating unit that’s not functioning correctly is going to have a tough time keeping your home consistently warm. If the temperature varies from room to room, there may be a reason — and a trusted contractor can get to the root of the problem during routine maintenance, before it becomes an emergency. (You can also learn more about air sealing and duct maintenance here.)
6. Minimize emergency repairs.
Speaking of emergencies, it may help if you think of an HVAC tune-up like a routine cleaning at the dentist. That preventive cleaning is going to be a lot less expensive (and less painful) than an emergency visit.
If your AC is on the fritz, be sure to check out this article!
7. Save money with preventive AC maintenance.
Nearly all of the reasons to schedule your fall HVAC checkup boil down to this: It can save you money in the form of:
- Lower electricity bills
- Longer-lasting HVAC equipment
- Fewer emergency repairs
We said it last month when we covered air sealing, but we’ll say it again this month: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially if it means you can avoid replacing your HVAC system!
Hit the “easy” button and find a licensed and insured contractor by using our Quality Contractor Network. All members are vetted by TVA and trained to meet our project quality standards.
Search the Quality Contractor Network for free to find TVA-vetted contractors near you.
Building the Fast Charge Network
Alabama town embraces EV fast charging and welcomes new visitors to a revitalized downtown.
Fast charging station helps bring more people to a bustling Main Street.
Fort Payne, AL, the birthplace of Alabama (the legendary country music band) and Pete the Cat (the beloved blue children’s book character), has a new claim to fame: It’s home to the very first electric vehicle (EV) fast charging site in TVA’s regional Fast Charge Network.
Since Fort Payne’s fast charging station was installed in 2022, 46 chargers have been installed across the Tennessee Valley’s seven-state region.
“We hope to double the size of the Fast Charge Network in 2024. Once completed, the network will include approximately 80 locations and 200 fast chargers,” said McKale Carter, an electric vehicle programs specialist at TVA EnergyRight®.
The direct current (DC) fast charging stations in the network can charge an EV in 20-60 minutes. Organizations and businesses interested in having a fast charger installed should contact their local power company.
To learn more about charging, visit our website or check out our Charging 101 article on Driving Evolution, TVA EnergyRight’s EV blog.
Electrifying transportation, serving our region.
“If you consider the location of Fort Payne, between Atlanta and Huntsville, Chattanooga and Birmingham, it’s a crossroads,” said radio personality and Main Street hero Steve Malcom.
Which makes the picture-perfect small town the perfect location for an EV fast charging station.
Ironically, charging your EV on Fort Payne’s thriving Main Street is a great way to step back in time and experience a slice of small-town USA while plugging into the future. While you charge up, be sure to top up on coffee at one of the local coffee shops, grab a bite to eat at any of the nearby restaurants, visit a one-of-a-kind museum or go shopping at one of the many stores on Main Street.
“Our original intention was to draw attention to our downtown area,” said Mike Shirey, general manager of the Fort Payne Improvement Authority. “We have definitely done that. We wanted to introduce people to Fort Payne so they could see what we’re so proud of.”
Fulfilling our mission, today and tomorrow.
“TVA was created with the mission to help electrify the Tennessee Valley. To bring electricity, and jobs, and do so in an environmentally responsible way,” said Drew Frye, a commercial energy services manager at TVA EnergyRight.
“The Fast Charge Network is a program where we work with local power companies, state agencies and private companies and cities to help develop the foundational electric vehicle charging network. This really complements that mission,” noted Frye. “It’s really about innovation and bringing new technology to our region.”
Fort Payne’s fast charging station is part of the ChargePoint network. Creating an account is free, and downloading the ChargePoint app makes it easy to identify nearby chargers and pay. All Fast Charge Network sites are equipped with Combined Charging Standard (CCS) and CHAdeMO plugs. Cars equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) can buy an adapter to charge at any site within the Fast Charge Network.
Working together to make things work.
TVA is collaborating with state agencies, local power companies and other partners to pave the way for EV adoption in the region. This includes developing the Fast Charge Network, which will place public fast chargers at least every 50 miles along the interstates and major highways across TVA’s seven-state service area by 2026. Once completed, the Fast Charge Network will include approximately 80 locations and 200 fast chargers.
Fort Payne’s fast charger was made possible through a partnership with TVA, local utility Fort Payne Improvement Authority, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) and Seven States Power Corporation. TVA provided the DC fast chargers, and ADECA contributed state grant funding to install the chargers.
“We moved quickly to participate in this program because we want to make it easy for people to choose EVs so our community can enjoy the environmental and economic benefits of electric transportation,” said Fort Payne Improvement Authority’s general manager, Mike Shirey. “The support from TVA and grant funding from ADECA made it possible to add charging stations without affecting our customers’ bills.”
About FPIA:
Fort Payne Improvement Authority is a municipal public corporation created in 1940 by public vote of the citizens of Fort Payne, Alabama. FPIA is one of 154 local power companies served by TVA and provides service to approximately 8,600 customers. FPIA is committed to providing its customers with a safe and reliable power source at the lowest practical cost. We value our customers and are committed to providing them with excellent customer service.
How to choose an electric bicycle.
Pedal easy: How to choose an electric bicycle that works for you.
Thinking about upping your bike game? We’re ready to play … and help you choose an electric bicycle that fits your cycling style.
First, a few words about the e-bike classifications. Most bicycle manufacturers and state and local entities have adopted a three-class system for categorizing electric bicycles.
| Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | |
| Pedal Assist | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Throttle | No | Yes | No |
| Max Assisted Speed | 20 mph | 20 mph | 28 mph |
Class 1: Pedal-assist only. A motor provides assistance only when you’re pedaling. Motorized assistance cuts off when you reach 20 mph.
Class 2: Pedal assist + throttle. Pedal-assist up to 20 mph and a throttle-powered mode that does not require pedaling.
Class 3: Pedal assist only. Motorized assistance cuts off at 28 mph. Check local regulations regarding bike path and multi-use trail navigation.
If you’re ready to take the plunge and start whirling your way to work (or spinning to school), here’s what you need to know to choose an electric bicycle that’ll get the job done.
How to choose an electric bicycle that fits your pedaling style and experience.
How you ride, where you ride and what you hope to do with your e-bike all factor into which e-bike is best for you.
Class 1
Class 1 e-bikes are easy to use and feel a lot like riding a conventional bicycle. These bikes are great for newbie electric cyclists looking to get from point A to point B quicker and with a little less pedaling.
They also tend to be the most widely accepted e-bike from a regulatory standpoint. Because they top out at 20 mph and don’t feature a throttle, they’re generally permitted on bike paths, greenways and bike lanes.
Class 2
In addition to pedal assist, Class 2 e-bikes are also throttle-powered. Throttle assistance can come in handy on off-road trails or in hilly or mountainous regions. These bikes feel a bit like riding a moped and may be best for experienced e-bike riders because they tend to be faster and more powerful than Class 1 bikes.
Like Class 1 bicycles, Class 2 e-bikes top out at 20 mph; however, local municipalities may restrict their use on public, mixed-use paths.
Class 3
Feel the need for speed? Class 3 e-bikes provide the experienced rider with pedal assistance up to 28 mph. These faster and more powerful bikes are quite popular amongst the adventure-riding set, commuters who like to keep up with traffic, or errand runners carrying heavier loads.
Again, we recommend that you check your local regulations about where Class 3 bikes can be ridden: If you live in Tennessee or Alabama, for example, you should know that Class 3 bikes are prohibited on bicycle paths or greenway trails.
SOURCES: REI.com, Consumer Reports, Greenways for Nashville, Casetext.com
Choose an electric bicycle that suits your style
Just as you would when purchasing a conventional bike, you’ll want to start your search by narrowing the field. So how do you choose an electric bicycle that suits your style? It’s easy! And we’ll help you find a bike you like.
Electric mountain bike
Mountain bikes are extremely versatile. They excel off-road and on-trails, but they ride great on the road, too. Mountain bikes tend to have wider tires for added stability and a more relaxed geometry and sophisticated suspension for greater comfort. They are, however, heavier than road bikes and slower on paved surfaces than road or hybrid bikes.
Electric cruiser bikes
What’s a cruiser bike? Conjure up a picture of Almira Gulch (AKA the Wicked Witch of the West) pedaling away with poor Toto and you’ll be on the right path. Also known as beach cruisers, these e-bikes are made for recreational riding and comfortable cycling. Or, if you’re a nasty witch, dognapping.
Electric fat bikes
Like cruiser bikes, fat bikes are made for fun and comfort. However, thanks to their fat 4-inch plus tires, they ride well in loose soil, sand or even snow. These big boys come in a range of styles from foldable to full-on cruiser.
Electric road bikes
We’re going to commit cycling blasphemy here, but for the sake of simplicity, we’re including hybrid bikes, road bikes and racing bikes in this category. Typically road bikes have a body-forward, lean-in geometry, narrower saddles and no suspension. These bikes are easy to maneuver, are lighter than mountain bikes or cruisers, and can be easily ridden without any e-assist at all. Perfect for folks who just want a little help on the hills.
Electric cargo bikes
The minivan of the e-bike world, these bikes are great for hauling groceries, kids and pets. Electric cargo bikes may not be able to go as fast as other types of e-bikes, but if you want to reduce your carbon footprint while hauling a lot of stuff, cargo e-bikes are the way to go. (And let’s be honest, they’re way cooler than a minivan.)
Electric folding bikes
Tight on space? These clever conveyances fit neatly in the trunk of your car, snuggle safely in the luggage compartment of a commuter train, or tuck tidily behind the door of your office. If space is at a premium, a folding e-bike may be just the ticket. However, we should note that folding bikes may not ride as smoothly as conventionally sized bicycles.
As you home in on the type of bike you’d like, you’ll want to start reading reviews from editorial-vetted teams like those from Bicycling magazine, Cycling Weekly and Tom’s Guide to get a better sense of cost and quality.
What’s your e-bike budget?
Generally speaking, Class 1 e-bikes are the most affordable, and you can find a very good electric bicycle for under $1,500. (Although a quick trip to Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace reveals deals to be had on all classes of e-bikes.) Class 2 and Class 3 bikes tend to be more expensive and high-end e-bikes can cost $6,000 or more.
When you factor in how much you can save on gasoline, rideshare fares and parking, an electric bike’s price tag becomes a lot less daunting. Before you take the plunge, check for federal, state, or local rebates or incentives on ebikes.
Where should you buy an electric bicycle?
Ready to ride! It’s time to choose an electric bicycle! You can buy one online, of course, but if you’re new to the e-bike world, consider making a trip to a local bike shop. Generally speaking, bike shop staff will be more than happy to answer all your questions and help you choose an electric bicycle that’s right for you.
Plus, when you buy local, you’ll be able to take several models and styles of e-bikes for a test drive and find the one you like best. Once you’ve made your decision, they’ll even make sure that the bike is correctly fitted to you, making adjustments to the seat and handlebars as necessary. For the best service, look for a local shop that specializes in e-bikes or sells e-bikes exclusively.
Why should you buy an electric bicycle?
Piloting an e-bike can make riding over the region’s hills easier and help you get from point A to point B more quickly and efficiently. Electric bikes may be a good choice if you have knee injuries or struggle with respiratory problems or other health issues. (Be sure to speak with your doctor before pedaling off on your new e-bike, though!)
Don’t forget the gear!
E-bikes are fun, fast and fabulous but because they’re faster, they can be riskier to ride than a conventional bicycle. That’s why adding high-quality protective equipment to your shopping cart is essential.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A helmet that fits snugly over your noggin is a no-brainer. It shouldn’t slip from side to side or tilt forward or backwards as you’re moving. For extra safety, look for a reflective helmet for top-to-bottom nighttime visibility.
- Stand out with brightly colored, reflective clothing; long sleeves and long pants are highly recommended.
- For a stronger grip on the handlebars, consider a pair of cycling gloves. They may also help protect your paws in the event of a fall. While you’re at it, toss in some elbow and knee pads.
- Extra lights and reflectors. Some e-bikes may come equipped with lights and reflectors but the more the merrier!
- Don’t forget the bells, flags, and whistles. Safety flags seem very 1983, but they increase visibility. Horns and bells can help alert those around you to your approach.
Riding an e-bike is a great way to save on gasoline, get your daily dose of activity in and give the environment a break by keeping your car parked. Just make sure you follow the rules of the road and ride safely out there! We hope our “How to choose an electric bicycle” guide helps get you rolling in the right direction.
About our EV blogs: We know that big changes – like purchasing a vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline – can lead to big questions. And that’s why we’re doing our best to provide expert, unbiased answers to your pressing EV questions. Each of our posts will include links to trusted external sources like automotive magazines, thought leaders, research-backed studies, government agencies and more. Feel free to click around!
DISCLAIMER: No TVA endorsement of any specific vehicle, car manufacturer, electric charger or other equipment is intended or implied. This site’s content (including, without limitation, references and links to third-party information) is based on information provided at the time of publishing, and TVA makes no warranty therein.
Charging your EV at home: Fueling where you live.
What you need to know about charging your EV at home.
EV drivers in the Tennessee Valley region have plenty of good things to say about their vehicles and aren’t shy about sharing their top tips and tricks for EV ownership. Those who like to get from point A to point B quickly are thrilled by instant torque. Others are delighted by the fact that their cars produce zero tailpipe emissions. Some appreciate the lower overall cost of ownership and eliminating costly trips to the gas station.
Advice from EV experts for charging your EV at home
Nearly everyone we spoke to had good things to say about the convenience of charging their EVs at home. Plus, the cost of our region’s clean, reliable electricity remains lower than 70% of the nation’s top 100 utilities. When you use TVA’s nearly 60% carbon-free and locally produced electricity to fuel your car, truck, motorcycle or bicycle, filling up makes good financial sense and it’s good for the local economy.
Filling up is as easy as plugging in.
The verdict is in: Charging your electricity-fueled vehicle at home is convenient and economical. Now let’s get plugged into the ins and outs of charging your EV at home.
Charging your EV at home is one of the biggest perks to electric vehicle ownership, but first-time owners usually have plenty of excellent questions about home charging. Read on for answers, links to trusted websites and other resources to make sure you have what you need to successfully – and safely – get on with the business of charging your EV at home.
Make a plan for charging your EV at home before you bring it home.
If you’re ready to pull the plug and purchase an EV, consider starting the charger installation process before you bring your new baby home. The installation process may take up to eight weeks, depending on contractor, installation complexity and equipment availability.
What’s the best Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) for me?
Most new electric vehicles arrive at your doorstep with a Level 1 charger. (Can’t find it? Check the car’s trunk!) Also known as trickle-chargers, these slow-charging 120-volt devices are highly portable and great to use in a pinch or while traveling to destinations that aren’t equipped with a Level 2 charger or DC fast charger. Simply plug it into a standard wall outlet and let the juice trickle into your EV’s battery.
What do our owner friends recommend? If you routinely drive more than 30 miles a day, having a Level 2 (240-volt) home charging station – also known as an EVSE – professionally installed is recommended. (Check out Charging 101 for EV charging tips!) Level 2 charging adds about 20 to 30 miles or more of driving range per hour.
With a Level 2 charger, you can plug in your nearly depleted EV when you get home from work and take your first sip of morning coffee with the satisfaction of knowing that your battery is topped up and ready to whisk you away.
Plus, with the region’s low electricity rates, home charging is a great way to save on fuel costs.
To find the home charging station that’s right for you, visit the TVA EnergyRight Marketplace and search for EV chargers by Enervee Score®, brand, cost, customer reviews, features and more. Don’t worry! We’ll break it down for you so you can shop with confidence.
Enervee Score®
This score shows you how energy efficient a product is compared to all the other products in the category. The closer to 100, the more efficient the charger. (That is: chargers with a rating close to 100 use less energy to fill up your battery.) For EV chargers, the score is based on a combination of smart charging features and savings from electrical losses.
Home EV charging station make and model
With so many options available, it can be tough to figure out which home charger is the best. And what’s best for you and your EV may not be the best option for your neighbor. To find the right home EV charging station, we recommend reading customer reviews on the Marketplace and checking out independent reviews from trusted sources like MotorTrend, Wirecutter or Consumer Reports.
Whatever model you choose, just be sure it has a safety testing certification sticker from UL Solutions.
Cost
Although you can sort chargers by price, we don’t recommend this method – as tempting as it is! Purchasing a new car is a long-term investment and your choice of charging equipment should be, too. You should be able to choose a high-quality charger within a $500-700 range. To maximize your enjoyment, select a charger that’s efficient and well-reviewed, has the features you need and is built to fit your charging location.
NEMA electrical enclosure rating and ingress protection
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) defines the standards used for electrical enclosures. NEMA-rated enclosures help protect against accidental access to dangerous components and environmental hazards like water or dust. The ratings help define the types of environments (indoors or outdoors) in which an enclosure can be used.
Ingress protection (IP) ratings are defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and certify that an object is able to withstand a certain and specific amount of exposure to solids (like dust) and liquids (like rain). The higher the IP rating, the better protection it offers against the elements. In other words, look for an IP rating of 5 or 6 if you’re installing your charger outside.
When professionally installed and used according to manufacturer’s directions, yes, EVs are designed to charge safely in rain, snow or ice. Just be careful out there on those slippery roads!
Popular EV charging features
Not only is a Level 2 charger the fastest way to charge your EV at home, but these chargers usually come with more handy features than your standard Level 1 charger. Keep these charger features in mind as you shop:
- Wi-Fi connectivity: This gives you the ability to monitor charging remotely and receive alerts delivered to an app on your phone.
- Amp output (max power) capability: Depending on your vehicle, you may benefit from higher (or lower) output capabilities. (For more about EV batteries and why kilowatts, amps and battery capacity matters, check out our Battery Basics post.)
- Managed charging: Make sure your vehicle is powered when needed, while supporting a more reliable and resilient grid.
- Cord length: Do you need a charging cord that’s long enough to span a two-car garage?
- Cord management: This one’s for you, neat freaks. Some folks don’t mind messy cords. Others can’t stand an undressed cable. If you don’t know what “cable dressing” is, don’t worry too much about cord management. If you’re nodding your head in reverent appreciation here, look for a charger with a built-in cord management system.
- Smart assistant integration: Some chargers connect with digital assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.
- Installation: Level 2 chargers may have multiple installation options like 14-50 plugs (like your dryer outlet plugs) or 6-50 plugs. Chargers can also be directly hardwired from the electrical box.
How can I find a trustworthy electrician to install a residential EV charger?
For peace of mind, you’ll want to find a certified electrician you can count on. Some electricians are certified by the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP) and you can search the organization’s website to find a technician. EVSE companies like EvoCharge or ChargePoint may also be able to point you in the right direction. If they’re not certified by EVITP or a charger manufacturer, you may also want to consider asking potential contractors how many EV chargers they’ve installed to get a better sense of their level of expertise. And don’t forget to ask for references!
How much does it cost to install a home EV charger?
Charger costs can vary widely. At the time we wrote this article, chargers listed on the Marketplace ranged from $199 to $699, with an average price of $470.
According to Qmerit, an EV charging installer recommended by dozens of EV manufacturers, a typical home installation can cost anywhere from $800-$2,000, depending on job complexity, charger power and the distance between the electrical panel and the charging station.
How much does it cost to charge an EV at home?
Home electricity rates in our region are among the lowest in the country, which means that EV owners in the Valley save $20+ per refueling!
Use this formula to estimate how much fueling up with electricity will cost you:
* Find miles per kWh for common EV makes and models here.
**Example: Middle Tennessee Electric residential time-of-use (off-peak consumption plus fuel cost adjustment) rate as of 9/7/23.
SOURCE: The Washington Post
Can I use an extension cord to charge my EV at home?
We do not recommend using an extension cord because the additional cord length adds resistance and can overheat home wiring.
How many kilowatts do I need?
MotorTrend recommends 9.6 kilowatts (40 amps), noting that it will add about 29 miles per hour of charging for mid-size crossover SUVs. The more kilowatts (or amps) your charger can deliver, the faster your EV battery can charge.
However, the car itself will determine the final charging speed, no matter which charger you buy. In some instances, higher power chargers won’t necessarily charge your EV more quickly. Check out the table below to get a sense of how quickly charger amperage and power output impact charging times. But remember: Don’t buy a charger that exceeds your car’s capabilities.
Power of the plug.
Although using a NEMA 14-50 outlet (like your dryer outlet) allows you to take your charger with you if you move, most installation pros recommend hardwiring your home charger. However, if you take the plug-in installation path, use a commercial-grade plug designed for charging. Inexpensive residential outlets are not intended for 8-12 hours of EV charging and may overheat.
Can my home handle an EV charger?
If you’ve made it this far, but you’re thinking: “There’s no way my old home can support an EV charger.”
Don’t worry, you may have options! Consult with a certified electrician who can take a look at your electrical panel and service. In some instances, they’ll easily identify spare electrical capacity (amperage) and breaker space. If that’s not the case, they’ll likely have a few recommendations that’ll work for you. Some possibilities may include:
- Exploring smart energy devices that can share power between existing appliances, like your clothing dryer and your EV. (Encourage your electrician to check with local codes officials when they pull a permit for your EV charger installation.)
- Choosing a lower power (lower amperage) charger.
- Upgrading your wiring and electrical panel to accommodate a higher power (higher amperage) charger.
Go forth and start charging your EV at home!
That’s a wrap, friends. We hope we’ve covered all the basics of EV home charging and then some!
About the author: The TVA EnergyRight EV Team works diligently to make sure the people of the Tennessee Valley region have fact-based information about electric vehicles so they can decide how EVs fit into their lives. TVA is collaborating with state agencies, local power companies and other partners to pave the way for EV adoption in the region. This includes developing the Fast Charge Network, which will place public fast chargers at least every 50 miles along the interstates and major highways across TVA’s seven-state service area by 2026.
About our EV blogs: We know that big changes – like purchasing a vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline – can lead to big questions. And that’s why we’re doing our best to provide expert, unbiased answers to your pressing EV questions. Each of our posts will include links to trusted external sources like automotive magazines, thought leaders, research-backed studies, government agencies and more. Feel free to click around!
DISCLAIMER: No TVA endorsement of any specific vehicle, car manufacturer, electric charger or other equipment is intended or implied. This site’s content (including, without limitation, references and links to third-party information) is based on information provided at the time of publishing, and TVA makes no warranty therein.