What to Do When the Lights Go Out and You Drive an EV
A power outage might make you worry about charging your electric vehicle, but let’s consider the bigger picture. Most outages are relatively short, and if the power goes out, you’re in the same boat as your neighbors with gasoline cars, as gas pumps also need electricity to function.
Be Prepared and Know Your Options
If you live in an area prone to outages, or are traveling, preparedness is key. Similar to keeping your gas tank full, make sure your EV is charged. Charge it every opportunity you get rather than waiting until the battery dips low. Consider public charging options within a 25-to-50-mile radius.
Power Outages are Usually Brief
Don’t fret too much; most power outages are brief. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average American experienced less than six hours of power interruptions in 2023, often made up of several shorter incidents. Some outages are planned for maintenance, while others are unexpected due to equipment failures or storms. In the rare event of a major outage, such as the 2003 Northeast blackout or the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, power was restored within hours, providing a historical perspective.
Plan for Public Charging
Identify public charging stations, including both DC fast-chargers and Level 2 sites, within a 25- to 50-mile radius. In the area during an outage, if you’re down to around 10% charge, you have enough battery range (20 to 45 miles) to reach a public charging station. Prioritize stations near facilities like stores.
Generators Offer a Backup Plan
If you own a generator, consider wiring your house so that the circuits include an outlet near your EV parking spot. Even at a reduced charging rate, it provides some range. Alternatively, use the generator’s outlet to power the EV’s portable charging cord. While a 120-volt outlet won’t charge as fast as a 240-volt setup, it can still provide a few miles of range per charging hour until power is restored.
Hurricane Milton Charging Experience
During the evacuations before Hurricane Milton in October 2024, Florida’s charging infrastructure performed well despite outages. Stable reported that charging station outages were concentrated in areas near the hurricane’s landfall. Over 85% of charging points were back online within two days, while gas stations with power had long lines and limited fuel. There was little crowding at EV charging stations along evacuation routes.
The Growth of Charging Stations
The number of charging stations is continually increasing. The U.S. and Canada now have about 233,000 charging ports at over 84,000 EV sites, according to the Department of Energy Alternative Fuels Data Center. Although more EVs are on the road, the charging station network is growing, ready to serve them during any future blackouts.
Don’t Worry; Everyone is Affected
Reiterating the obvious, if there’s a widespread power outage, gasoline car owners can’t get fuel either. If bad weather is forecast, plug in more often than usual. You’ll be fine.
John Voelcker is a contributing editor.
