What factors contribute to the high EV charging costs in Arizona

Electricity Rates

• Arizona's average residential electricity rate is 16 cents per kilowatt-hour (¢/kWh), which is relatively high compared to some other states.

• Public charging rates in Arizona are even higher, averaging 53 ¢/kWh, which is above the national average of 45 ¢/kWh for public charging stations.

Climate Factors

• Arizona's hot climate can impact EV efficiency and charging needs:

• Extreme temperatures can reduce EV range, requiring more frequent charging.

• Air conditioning use in hot weather diverts energy from the drivetrain, increasing overall energy consumption.

• The need for robust battery cooling systems in hot weather may contribute to higher infrastructure costs for charging stations.

Infrastructure Costs

• The development and maintenance of a public charging network in Arizona likely contribute to higher charging costs.

• Ensuring local electric utilities can provide reliable service with the added load of transportation electrification may require grid upgrades, potentially increasing overall costs.

Market Factors

• Arizona ranks second in the nation for the highest average price of electric vehicle charging stations, suggesting a possible lack of competition or high operational costs.

• The supply of EVs and charging infrastructure is still catching up to demand, which can lead to higher prices in the short term.

Regulatory Environment

• While Arizona offers some incentives for EV adoption, the state's policies may not be as comprehensive as those in states with lower charging costs.

• The recent ending of certain tax breaks for EV purchases could indirectly affect the overall cost structure of EV ownership and charging in the state.

Utility Company Policies

• While some utilities offer special EV rates or incentives, these may not be sufficient to offset the overall high costs of charging.

• Time-of-use rates offered by utilities can affect charging costs, but may not be fully utilized by all EV owners.



These factors combine to create a challenging environment for EV charging costs in Arizona. However, it's important to note that despite these higher costs, EV charging is still generally more economical than fueling gasoline vehicles, especially when considering home charging options and long-term savings.