How do I start a charge?
Public stations in Dunedin are managed by two separate apps and organizations. To initiate a charge, you will need to download the corresponding free app for the respective charger type:
- Dunedin Level-2 stations = ChargeUp
- Duke Energy DC Fast Charger stations = ShellRecharge (which will be switching to EVConnect in the next month)
Where can I charge?
There are currently 14 public electric vehicle charging stations in Dunedin. View the map on the main tab for locations and details. You can also utilize the maps in EV charging apps including ChargeUp, ShellRecharge, EVConnect, PlugShare, and others. Some locations have multiple plugs and allow for multiple vehicles to be charging at the same time. Apps will give you real-time availability of the station.
Dunedin Level-2 chargers are located at:
- City Hall: 737 Louden Ave
- Hale Senior Activity Center: 330 Douglas Ave
- Property of old city hall: 542 Main Street
- Dunedin Fine Art Center: 1143 Michigan Blvd
Duke Energy DC Fast Chargers are located at:
- Dunedin Public Library: 223 Douglas Ave
- Monroe Parking Garage: 356 Monroe Street
What is the difference between Level-2 chargers and DC Fast Chargers?
Level-2 chargers provide a lower and slower charger to the vehicle than fast chargers. Level-2 chargers usually output between 7 – 40 kW and have a J1772 plug. Fast chargers usually output between 50 – 350 kW and have either a CHAdeMO or CCS plug.
Does DC Fast Charging damage the EV battery?
Excessive fast charging can negatively impact EV battery performance, durability, and longevity. The slower and lower the charge, the better it is for the health of your battery. Try to limit dependence on fast chargers and aim to only utilize them in dire circumstances.
How much does it cost to charge my electric vehicle?
Pricing for EV charging stations can be found in the Pricing tab. Pricing differs from Dunedin managed stations to Duke managed stations.
How long does it take to charge my electric vehicle?
The length of charge time is dependent on your vehicle type, battery size, battery fullness, and the type of station you are visiting. Other factors that impact charging speed include environmental factors such as temperature. Know that whether you are charging at home or at a public station, charging an electric vehicle always takes longer than filling up a gas vehicle. Most vehicles can charge from empty to full in 4-8 hours at a Level-2 station. DC Fast Chargers take 20 minutes to 1 hour to charge on average.
What is an idling fee?
You can imagine that leaving a vehicle parked at a gas pump after filling it up wouldn’t go over well; people would be frustrated that another car was blocking their ability to access fuel. The same is true for electric vehicles. Charging stations are a fuel source for electric vehicles and are only intended to be used while actively charging. Once your battery is full, you will need to move your vehicle. To encourage users to charge up and move for the next user, idling fees have been implemented for all stations.
Idling fee rates differ from Dunedin Level-2 stations to Duke Energy DC Fast Chargers. See the Pricing tab for more details.
Why does the City provide EV charging?
In 2019 the City partnered with Duke Energy to implement an EV charging station pilot program for the purpose of expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, encourage EV use, and gather data to understand and evaluate the impact of electric vehicles on transit systems and the electric power grid.
Duke Energy covered the costs of equipment and installation. The City Commission at the time voted for all stations to be free for users for the duration of the pilot program. This meant the City would cover the electricity costs. City Commission made this decision as it was in alignment with neighboring municipalities and created a more cohesive regional program.
Why is there a fee to charge my electric vehicle?
Free charging was only approved for the duration of the Duke Energy Park & Plug Pilot Program which ran from 2019 – 2023. Fees cover the costs of network fees, electricity, and help build a reserve for maintenance, repairs, and future expansion of the program.
If a station is down, how do I report it?
If a station is not working or you are having trouble initiating a charge, call the 1-800 number located on the faceplate of the station for immediate assistance. To report chargers that are frequently down or have reoccurring issues, send an email to sustainability@dunedinfl.net with the subject line: Charger DOWN and then provide the station number.