How Much Does It Cost to Install an EV Charger in Rhode Island?
If you’re driving an electric vehicle in Rhode Island, you already know how convenient it is to plug in at home instead of waiting in line at a public charging station. More homeowners across Providence, Cranston, Warwick, and Johnston are installing EV chargers in their garages and driveways — but the first question is always the same: “How much will it cost me to install an EV charger?”
The short answer: most Rhode Island homeowners spend between $800 and $2,500+ for a Level 2 charger installation. The exact price depends on your electrical system, wiring distance, and whether you qualify for rebates or tax incentives.
EV charger installation services in Rhode Island
Let’s break it down.
Average EV Charger Installation Costs in Rhode Island
Level 1 chargers (the kind that plug into a regular outlet) cost very little to set up but charge extremely slowly — usually adding only 3–5 miles per hour.
Level 2 chargers (240V hardwired wall units) are the most popular choice for homeowners. They provide 25–35 miles of range per hour and can fully charge most EVs overnight.
For a standard Level 2 installation in Rhode Island, expect costs to range from:
$800 – $1,200 for simple installs (short wire run, modern panel).
$1,500 – $2,500+ for more complex installs (panel upgrade, long conduit run, detached garage).
What Affects the Price?
Every home is different, and a few key factors determine your final cost:
Electrical panel capacity: Many older homes in Rhode Island still have 100-amp panels, which may require upgrading to 200 amps to safely support an EV charger.
Wiring distance: If your panel is on the opposite side of the house from your garage or driveway, additional conduit and wiring increase labor and material costs.
Permits and inspections: Electrical permits are required by Rhode Island municipalities. Melone Electric pulls all permits and handles inspections.
Charger brand and type: Tesla Wall Connector, ChargePoint, and other smart chargers have different price points compared to simpler models.
Need a panel upgrade before adding a charger?
Rhode Island EV Rebates & Incentives
The good news: homeowners in Rhode Island have access to generous rebates and credits that can reduce the cost of installing a charger.
National Grid RI rebates: Up to $700 toward the purchase and installation of a Level 2 charger.
Federal EV tax credit: 30% of the cost of equipment and installation, up to $1,000 for residential chargers.
Local programs: Some Rhode Island towns offer additional incentives — always worth checking before you buy.
Learn more about Rhode Island rebates
Link to https://drive.ri.gov/powerupri for information on RI rebates.
DIY vs. Hiring a Licensed Electrician
You may be wondering: “Can I just install the charger myself?”
While it may look simple, EV charger installations involve working with 240V circuits and meeting strict code requirements. Mistakes can result in fire hazards, failed inspections, or voided warranties.
Hiring a licensed and insured electrician ensures:
Proper wiring and breaker sizing.
Compliance with Rhode Island building codes.
Protection for your home insurance and peace of mind.
At Melone Electric, we’re licensed, insured, BBB accredited, EVITP Certified and experienced in installing all major charger brands.
How Long Does Installation Take?
Simple installs: Often completed in 3–4 hours.
Complex installs (with panel upgrades): May take 1–2 days, including inspection.
Scheduling: Permit approvals vary by town, but we handle the paperwork so you don’t have to.
Why Choose Melone Electric?
We’re not just another contractor — we’re your neighborhood Rhode Island electricians.
Licensed & insured
BBB Accredited & Chamber of Commerce member
Serving Providence, Cranston, Warwick, Johnston, and surrounding areas
Specialists in EV charger installs, rewiring, and panel upgrades
Guidance on rebates and incentive paperwork
Melone Electric (Thomas Melone) is EVITP Certified.
We’re trained under the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP), the national standard for safe, code compliant EV charger installations. This certification ensures your home or business installation is performed to the highest safety and performance standards. https://db.evitp.org/
