If you’re interested in buying a plug-in electric vehicle when they become available next year, the California utility, Southern California Edison, recommends that you plan ahead. Otherwise, you may get home to find some unpleasant charging surprises. (Read: "2011 Chevrolet Volt sales to start in California.")
 
Depending on the type of EV you buy and your charging needs, SCE says that you may need to upgrade your home’s electrical system or switch to a different billing plan. The utility notes that most plug-in hybrids will be able to be charged from a standard 120-volt household outlet (called Level 1). But dedicated battery-electric cars will need 240-volt lines (Level 2), which could require an upgrade be done before you bring the EV home. 
 
Even if you don’t live in Southern California, you can get a rundown of some of the considerations that you’ll face by checking out SCE’s Web site. It covers subjects such as getting plug-in ready, rates and charging options, and planning for the future. Then you can contact your own utility for answers to specific questions.

Looking at the larger picture, in the initial phases, when the number of plug-in EVs is small, SCE doesn’t anticipate any significant impacts to the electricity grid or supply. But as the number of EVs grows and charging trends develop, utilities will have to evaluate the needs in their regions and make adjustments as necessary to avoid spikes in electricity demand.

The company advises that EV buyers notify their utility as early as possible in order to be prepared for when the new baby comes home.

See our complete 2009 LA Auto Show coverage. 
 
—Rik Paul