How Much Does EV Charger Installation Cost in Knoxville?
A standard Level 2 EV charger installation in Knoxville costs $900–$1,400 total for a panel-ready home. That includes $500–$900 in electrician labor, $300–$430 for the charger unit, and $30–$80 for the permit. Homes needing a panel upgrade first run $2,500–$4,500. KUB's charger rebate has ended, but their Time of Use rate lowers your ongoing cost to charge once everything's installed.
| Scenario | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Simple install, panel ready | $900–$1,200 |
| Longer conduit run or outdoor mount | $1,200–$1,800 |
| Panel upgrade + charger install | $2,500–$4,500 |
What's Included in the Price
- Electrician labor, typically 2–4 hours for a straightforward install
- Dedicated 240V circuit, wiring, breaker, and materials
- Charger unit, if supplied by electrician; you can supply your own
- City of Knoxville permit, required; your electrician pulls it
- Inspection coordination, passing the City of Knoxville electrical inspection
KUB's Time of Use Rate
KUB (Knoxville Utilities Board) used to offer a rebate for new Level 2 chargers. That program has ended. What's still available is KUB's Time of Use rate for EV owners, a lower per-kWh price for charging overnight. Contact KUB at kub.org/ev or (865) 524-2911 to enroll. Full KUB TOU rate guide →
Why Knoxville Electricity Rates Make EVs a Smart Choice
Knoxville's electricity rate is approximately 12 cents per kWh, about 38% below the national average. Charging an EV at home in Knoxville costs roughly $0.90–$1.20 per equivalent gallon. KUB's Time of Use overnight rate reduces this further. For most Knoxville drivers, home EV charging costs less than $40/month even with heavy driving.
What Drives Cost Up or Down
Historic neighborhoods, panel upgrades are common
Knoxville has a large stock of older homes. Fourth & Gill, Sequoyah Hills, parts of North Knoxville, Old North Knox, where 100-amp electrical service is standard. These homes almost always need a panel upgrade before a Level 2 charger can be installed. Budget $2,500–$4,500 total if your home was built before 1980. How to check →
West Knoxville and Farragut, usually panel-ready
Newer homes in west Knoxville, Farragut, and Hardin Valley typically have 200-amp panels with available capacity. These installs are generally straightforward and land in the $900–$1,400 range.
Buying your own charger saves $50–$150
If you purchase the charger before the electrician arrives, you avoid the markup. Most Knoxville electricians will install a customer-supplied unit, confirm when booking.