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Ed. note: “Community Energy Insights” is a monthly column from the people at the Redwood Coast Energy Authority, Humboldt County’s intergovernmental joint-powers authority on all things electrical. Look for it on the last Thursday of the month.

This week’s column is by RCEA Senior Programs Manager Mike Avcollie.

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Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common on Humboldt County roads — but questions and misconceptions still come up all the time.

Are they really better for the environment?

Are they too expensive?

What about range anxiety?

At Redwood Coast Energy Authority, we work with local residents, businesses, and public agencies on transportation programs across the county. Here’s what the data — and real-world experience — actually show.

Let’s break down a few common myths.

Myth #1: EVs Don’t Really Save Energy

Part of this myth may come from the fact that during the manufacturing phase, electric vehicles produce more emissions than internal combustion vehicles, largely due to the materials used in batteries. However, because the operational emissions from EVs are much lower than those of internal combustion vehicles, a new electric car will produce only 110 grams of CO2e per mile, while a new gasoline vehicle will produce 410 grams of CO2 per mile. (Source.)

Why? Electric vehicles are significantly more efficient to operate than gas-powered cars.

According to research highlighted by Yale Climate Connections, EVs convert about 77% of the electrical energy from the grid into power at the wheels. By comparison, conventional gasoline vehicles convert only about 12%–30% of the energy stored in gasoline into movement.

Because electric motors are so much more efficient, replacing a gasoline-powered vehicle with an EV saves energy, no matter what type of energy source is used to charge it.

The same research shows:

• Replacing gasoline with coal-based electricity reduces energy use by about 31%
• Replacing gasoline with natural gas reduces energy use by about 48%
• Replacing gasoline with hydropower reduces energy use by about 75%

In other words, EVs use less energy to move the same distance. And as California’s grid continues to incorporate more renewable resources, the benefits increase.

Myth #2: EVs Cost Too Much

It’s true that some EVs have a higher purchase price up front. But what many people don’t realize is that they often cost less to own and operate over time.

According to research from Consumer Reports, a typical EV driver can save $800 to $1,000 per year on fueling costs by charging at home instead of buying gasoline. Over the life of the vehicle, that can add up to thousands of dollars in savings.

Maintenance costs are also lower. EVs:

• Don’t require oil changes

• Have fewer moving parts

• Experience less brake wear due to regenerative braking

One study found that reduced maintenance costs can total around $4,600 in savings over the life of the vehicle. For many drivers, especially those with predictable daily commutes, the long-term math is worth considering.

Myth #3: I’ll Run Out of Charge

“Range anxiety” is one of the most common concerns we hear. Let’s consider what the numbers say locally.

The average daily vehicle miles traveled in Humboldt County is about 30 miles per day.

Meanwhile, most new EVs in 2026 offer a range of 250–300 miles on a full charge. For most daily driving — commuting, errands, school drop-offs — an EV can cover several days of driving before needing to recharge. And when you do need to recharge, options are expanding.

RCEA’s REVNet program supports public EV charging across Humboldt County, with 72 charging ports at 22 locations, plus there are many DC fast chargers along major travel corridors. DC fast charging can bring many modern EVs up to 80% charge in about 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the vehicle and charger. Plus, apps like PlugShare make it easy to locate public chargers wherever you travel.

A Few Practical Tips for Driving Electric

If you’re considering an EV — or already drive one — here are a few helpful tips:

• Consider switching your electric account to an EV billing rate (aka “EV-A”, “EV-B”, or “EV-2A”). EV rates offer deep discounts during Off-Peak hours to help reduce the cost of EV charging at home.

• Use DC fast charging when you need it but rely on home charging for day-to-day use. Frequent fast charging can contribute to battery wear over time.

• If your vehicle charges fastest up to 80%, it’s often quicker on long trips to charge up to 80% more often, rather than waiting for 100%.

• Expect a slightly lower range in very cold weather. Like any battery-powered device, EV range can dip when temperatures drop.

Save Even More with Discounted EV Charging

RCEA is partnering with GRID Alternatives to offer discounted public electric vehicle (EV) charging for income-qualified customers. Through this limited-time pilot program, eligible customers can receive 40% off charging at RCEA-owned REVNet charging stations across Humboldt County. This pilot is designed to make public EV charging more affordable and accessible for households already receiving CARE, FERA or other public assistance program benefits.

You may qualify if you:

• Have an active residential RCEA electric account in good standing

• Are enrolled in CARE, FERA, or another qualifying public assistance program

• Own an electric vehicle registered at your RCEA service address, or that is registered in the RCEA account holder’s name.

To learn more and apply, visit this link.

The application process is straightforward, and our team can help if you have questions about eligibility.

The Bottom Line

Driving electric in Humboldt County is not a future idea — it’s already happening.

As Humboldt County’s local electricity provider, Redwood Coast Energy Authority works to expand charging infrastructure, provide incentives, and support programs that make cleaner transportation more accessible.

Whether you’re EV-curious or ready to make the switch, we’re here to help you understand your options and what makes sense for your household.

Have Questions? Talk to Our Transportation Team

Electric vehicles aren’t one-size-fits-all. Every household’s driving needs, budget, and home setup are different. RCEA’s Transportation Team works with residents, businesses and public agencies across Humboldt County to answer questions about EV ownership, charging options, rebates and local programs.

If you’re EV-curious or ready to make the switch, we’re here to help you make an informed decision. Reach out to Redwood Coast Energy Authority via phone, (707) 269-1700, email info@redwoodenergy.org or stop by our office in Eureka at 633 3rd St., Eureka.