Electric Vehicles

Why Electric Vehicles?

Lower Emissions

All-electric vehicles produce approximately 73% less greenhouse gas emissions than a conventional gasoline car- even less if the electricity is generated from renewable energy sources like wind or solar.

The transportation sector is the largest source of carbon pollution in the U.S., responsible for more than 28% of the GHG emissions. 59% come from light-duty vehicles alone.

Higher Efficiency

Electric vehicles convert over 77% of the energy from their fuel (electricity) to move down the road, while conventional vehicles use only 12-30% of the energy available in their fuel (gasoline).

Less Local Air Pollution

While conventional engines produce pollutants at the tailpipe as a result of combusting gasoline or diesel, electric vehicles do not produce direct tailpipe emissions that can affect local air quality and public health.

Energy Security

Electricity is produced regionally or locally, which increases regional economic development, decreases reliance on imported fuels, and diversifies power sources for greater energy security. Learn more here.

Lower Overall Cost

Research shows that the total cost of ownership for electric vehicles is $6,000-10,000 less than a comparable gas vehicle over a lifetime. While upfront purchase prices tend to be higher, electric vehicles cost much less to fuel and maintain over time.

Sufficient Daily Range

Nearly all electric vehicles can cover the travel of a typical household, which drives an average of 50-100 miles per day.

Join our vision of the City of Ames as a leader in clean, convenient, and affordable transportation that is accessible to all and powered by locally sourced, clean, and renewable energy.

Charging 101

About 80% of charging happens at home. When you're on the go, you can use public charging options which continue to open across the country.

There are three main types of chargers that you will encounter: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (also called DC Fast Charging):

Level 1 charging uses a standard 120V outlet that you are likely to find in your garage. This is the slowest type of charging and will add an average of 5 miles per hour of charge. Also called “trickle charging,” this type of charging is not offered commercially and is typically only used at home.
Level 2 charging requires a 240V outlet. These chargers can be installed in your home with a basic electrical upgrade and are very commonly used for public chargers. Level 2 chargers add 20 to 60 miles per hour of charge.
Level 3 chargers, or DC Fast Chargers, are only used in commercial settings. These chargers are most often found along highways since they provide 60 to 100 miles per 20 minutes of charge.

If you’re able to charge at home, that is likely the easiest and most affordable option. If not, the City is working to expand public charging opportunities, with a focus on providing more convenient, safe and affordable chargers near multi-unit dwellings and commercial centers. Many workplaces also offer EV chargers in company parking lots or garages, so don’t forget to check with your employer when considering your charging options.

Installing an EV Charger

At Home

Installing a level 2 charger in your garage or driveway is easy! Just follow these steps:

Select your equipment, ensuring it is compatible with your vehicle.
Find a contractor. This list of local contractors is solely for informational purposes, not for promotion. Let us know if your business installs EV chargers and would like to be added to the list.

Baldus Electric - (515) 232-5096

Jaspering Electric - (515) 232-4276

Kurrent Electric - (515) 292-1155

Nelson Electric - (515) 232-2445
Talk to your contractor about an electrical permit, they will typically obtain this for you. Permitting Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment(PDF, 140KB).
Install the charger.
Ames Electric customers can apply for a Smart Energy Rebate for 50% of the total cost, up to $500. Apply here
If you are a customer of another electric utility, some offer incentives:
- Consumers Energy Rebate
- Midland Power Rebate
- While Alliant does not offer rebates for EV chargers, some Alliant rate plans may help you save money by charging during off-peak times.
- You may also be eligible for a federal tax credit: Refueling Infrastructure Tax Credit
Consider charging your EV with renewable energy! Explore options for installing solar or joining our community solar program.

For Public Use

Thank you for supporting the transition to electrified transportation! Here's how to install a public EV charger:

Select your equipment and installer. There are many vendors that manufacture, install, and/or manage EV charging stations. It is important to establish a service agreement before installation.
Check with your electric utility on power supply feasibility, and request a service installation. Charger feasibility and cost will vary depending on existing infrastructure, and level 3 charging may only be feasible in certain areas.
- Ames Electric: 515-239-5170
- Alliant Energy: 800-255-4268
- Consumers Energy: 800-696-6552
- Midland Power: 800-833-8876
A zoning permit and an electrical permit are required for commercial EV charger installations. Permitting Guidelines for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment(PDF, 140KB).
Zoning permit application.
Apply for an electrical permit online.
Proceed with installing the charger. Consider notifying EV charging station databases like PlugShare and Google Maps to help people find your station.
Ames Electric customers can apply for a Smart Energy Rebate for 50% of total costs up to $2,500 per plug: Apply for a Smart Energy Rebate
Businesses and tax-exempt entities may be eligible for a federal incentive: Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit

Find Public Charging

How is the City Supporting EVs?

In July, 2025, the City of Ames was awarded Charging Smart Silver designation. Charging Smart is a Department of Energy Program that recognizes communities for achieving policies that facilitate the expansion of electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging infrastructure.

As outlined in the Climate Action Plan, the City of Ames supports EV adoption by:

Offering rebates to Ames Electric customers who install EV charging
- Residential: 50% up to $500
- Commercial: 50% up to $2,500 per port
Installing public charging in the community.
Electrifying our municipal fleet, including light duty and heavy duty vehicles.

Learn more about our progress on the Climate Action Plan Dashboard.

EV Resources

Carbon Counter Vehicle Comparison Tool – compare the total monthly cost and life cycle emissions per mile for EVs, hybrids, and other gas & diesel cars by make and model.

EPA 'Electric Vehicle Myths' discusses top concerns about electric vehicles.

Iowa DOT | Learn about electric vehicles in Iowa

Iowa Clean Cities Coalition works with vehicle fleets, fuel providers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to identify community-driven choices that save energy and promote the use of alternative fuels and advanced vehicle technologies in transportation.