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Making the Switch to an Electric Vehicle?

Written by mlitwicki on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Making the Switch to an Electric Vehicle?

December 1, 2024

If you’re considering making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV), Trico is here to help. As your trusted local energy partner, we can help you make informed decisions about home charging options and factors to help you decide if an EV works for your typical driving needs.

Types of EVs

There are three common types of EVs. All-electric vehicles, also known as battery electric vehicles or BEVs, are powered solely by a large battery. Because BEVs are powered by a rechargeable battery and do not use gasoline, they produce zero emissions. On average, BEVs can run on a full battery for 110–300 miles.

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are powered by a combination of a large battery, an electric motor and a gas-powered engine. PHEVs recharge battery power from regenerative braking and can also be plugged in to a standard outlet. Depending on the model, they can run on full battery power (alone) for 15–60 miles.

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) use an electric motor to assist gas-powered engines. Similar to PHEVs, HEVs can also recharge their battery power from regenerative braking, but the power comes from the gas engine, and they do not plug in to an electrical outlet.

Home Charging Options

Most new BEVs and PHEVs include a Level 1 charging unit (110-volt compatible), which can be plugged into any standard household electrical outlet. A Level 1 charger typically provides two to five miles of range per hour of charging, which may work for those with shorter daily commutes.

For lengthier daily drive times, Level 2 chargers can be installed for faster charging, at 10–30 miles of range per hour. A Level 2 charger uses 240-volt service, which may require electrical upgrades conducted by a licensed electrician.

Trico can help

Member interest in EVs is growing and that’s why Trico provides information about EVs on our website so our Members can make informed EV purchasing decisions. We also offer two voluntary rate options for EV owners.

Trico EV Time-of-Use Rate

Trico’s voluntary Electric Vehicle Time-of-Use Rate (EV TOU Rate) is for eligible Members who have EVs. Members who sign up for the EV TOU Rate will receive up to 400kWh of energy at a 45 percent rate reduction if they charge their EVs between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Encouraging charging during off-peak hours supports Trico’s system and helps save money for all Members. This experimental rate is available to the first 1,000 Members who sign up.

Trico EV Unlimited Rate

With this rate, Trico will own and install a Level 2 charger at the Member’s home and provide unlimited EV charging at a fixed monthly cost when charging between the hours of 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. – 6 a.m. Charging outside these hours is an additional $0.25 per kWh charge. This experimental rate is available to the first 1,000 Members who sign up.

For more information about EVs, visit our website at www.trico.coop, email sunwatts@trico.coop, or call us at 520‑744‑2944 ext. 1524 to speak to one of our Energy Solutions experts.

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Trico Pioneers Electric Vehicle Charger Installation

Written by mlitwicki on . Posted in Latest News, Livewire.

Trico pioneers electric vehicle charger installations

June 10, 2024

Trico has started installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers in Members’ homes to support Members with EVs and help reduce energy usage during periods of high demand.

Among the early adopters is Clifford Rosario, whose embrace of EV technology underscores the practicality and convenience it offers. Rosario, a lifelong car enthusiast, became the first homeowner to have a Trico EV charger installed at his residence. His decision to enroll in the program stems from the seamless experience it promises, coupled with substantial cost savings in the long run.

“Convenience and affordability were key factors in my decision,” he said. “While EV chargers can often be a hefty investment, opting for installation through Trico not only eases the financial burden but also ensures hassle-free usage.”

For Rosario, whose daily routine includes commuting between Tucson and Phoenix, the appeal of electric vehicles initially lay in their impressive performance metrics. However, it wasn’t until he integrated an EV into his lifestyle that he realized its full potential.

“With my hectic schedule, the last thing I need is frequent trips to the gas station,” Rosario remarks. “The transition to electric driving has not only streamlined my daily commute but also alleviated concern about maintenance and emissions.”

Rosario’s sentiment reflects a growing trend among Trico Members gravitating towards EVs for their practicality and environmental benefits. With 99% of his yearly mileage now powered by electricity, he advocates for the widespread adoption of EV chargers to facilitate this transition for others.

“Installing an EV charger at home is a game-charger,” Rosario asserts. “It not only encourages eco-friendly practices but also simplifies the switch to electric vehicles for individuals on the fence.”

Trico’s experimental EV rates offer savings for Members with EVs and a way to control costs for all Members.

To learn more about Trico’s EV Unlimited Rate, visit www.trico.coop.

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Trico Launches New EV Unlimited Rate

Written by mlitwicki on . Posted in Latest News, Livewire.

For some electric vehicle owners, our new EV Unlimited Rate could save you money

April 1, 2024

We are excited to announce our new Electric Vehicle (EV) Unlimited Rate. It is a simple, convenient option for Members who want to charge their EV at home.

This rate is designed to support the growing EV demand, and we recognize Trico Members with EVs have different needs. Members on this rate benefit from charging their EV in the convenience of their own home with the reliability and excellent service Trico provides.

Trico will install a level-two charger and offer unlimited charging at a flat monthly rate between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. See the chart at right.

This rate, along with our EV Time of Use Rate, is an example of Trico’s innovation to meet our Members’ needs in a way that benefits all Members.

To learn more, visit here.

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Go Electric with Trico

Written by mlitwicki on . Posted in Livewire.

Go Electric with Trico and Save Money!

April 27, 2023

Electricity is becoming cleaner every day and Members can save money on their energy costs over time.

Trico provides our Members with the latest information on purchasing an electric vehicle (EV). From tax incentives and benefits to a savings calculator, our EV website provides details on different EV models and what type of EV may be best for you. The Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) approved Trico’s Experimental Electric Vehicle Tariff and that tariff will be available soon. Members who charge their EVs between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. will pay a discounted rate.

To learn more about electric vehicles, visit our website here. You can also call us at (520) 744‑2944 to speak with one of our Sustainable Energy experts.

Additional Resources:

  1. View fuel economy and energy saving EV tips here.
  2. Learn how EV drivers save almost $800 per year here.
  3. See your top questions answered in this EV 101 guide.

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