Electric Vehicle Charging Station in Andalusia

The Ultimate Guide to Andalusia, Alabama EV Charging Stations

EV Charging in Andalusia, Alabama

Welcome to your definitive guide for navigating the world of electric vehicles in Andalusia, Alabama. As more drivers embrace the quiet, powerful, and efficient performance of EVs, understanding the local charging landscape becomes essential. Driving an electric car in a more rural part of Alabama presents both unique opportunities and challenges. This guide is designed to eliminate “range anxiety” and provide you with the confidence to charge up and explore, whether you’re a local resident or just passing through Covington County.

The charging infrastructure in Andalusia is in its early stages of development. For drivers within the city limits, the current public options are centered around Level 2 charging, which is ideal for topping off your battery over a few hours while you shop, dine, or work. There are currently no high-speed DC fast chargers (DCFC) located directly within Andalusia. This reality shapes the local EV experience: daily driving is best supported by a home charging setup, while public stations serve as convenient “opportunity charging” spots. For longer trips or quick refueling, strategic planning to visit nearby regional hubs is key. This guide provides a complete list of Andalusia Alabama EV charging stations and the crucial nearby locations you need to know.

Complete Listings for Andalusia, AL EV Charging Stations

To ensure you have the most accurate and actionable information, the following listings consolidate data from multiple driver-focused platforms. It is always recommended to use an app like ChargePoint or PlugShare to check for a station’s real-time availability before you arrive.

Public EV Charging Stations in Andalusia, AL

Andalusia Court Square (ChargePoint)

This is the primary public charging station in Andalusia, conveniently located in the heart of downtown. Situated in the parking lot of a former photography studio, it offers EV drivers a chance to explore local dining and shopping while their vehicle charges.  

• Location Details: 102 S 3 Notch St, Andalusia, AL 36420.  
• Technical Specifications: The station is part of the ChargePoint network and features two standard J-1772 plugs, which are compatible with all non-Tesla electric vehicles in North America. It provides Level 2 charging, with users reporting a maximum power output between 6.5 kW and 7.4 kW. At this speed, drivers can expect to add approximately 20 to 28 miles of range for every hour of charging, depending on the vehicle’s efficiency.  
• Pricing and Access: The station is publicly accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There has been some confusion regarding its cost over time. An older report mentioned a significant fee, while ChargeHub currently lists a parking fee of $0.75 per hour that kicks in after 240 minutes (4 hours). However, numerous recent check-ins from drivers in 2022, 2023, and 2024 consistently report that the charging session itself was completely free. The most likely scenario is that the city now provides the electricity at no cost but may enforce a parking fee for vehicles that overstay.   It is critical to confirm the current pricing structure within the ChargePoint app before beginning a charging session. Payment, if required, can be made via the ChargePoint app, a ChargePoint RFID card, or a contactless credit card. 
• User Notes and Tips: Driver feedback indicates the station is generally reliable (“Works great!”), though the charging speed is considered slow. Some users have noted potential issues, such as one of the charging plugs not locking securely into the vehicle’s port and, more commonly, the spots being blocked by non-electric vehicles (a practice known as “ICEing”).

David Scott Lee Nissan (Formerly Massey Automotive)

This charging station is located at a local car dealership and should not be considered a primary public charging option.

• Location Details: 600 W Bypass (also listed as 600 Western Bypass), Andalusia, AL 36420. The dealership’s main phone number is (334) 249-2484.  
• Access and Availability: This station is explicitly marked as “Restricted” on charging maps. Access is limited to dealership business hours, which are typically Monday-Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM and Saturday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The chargers are an amenity provided by the dealership as part of its “EV Certified” status, intended for servicing Nissan electric vehicles like the LEAF and ARIYA and for use by its customers. While a driver in an emergency might be granted permission to charge, this is not guaranteed.  It is essential to call the dealership ahead of time to confirm availability and ask for permission before driving there.
• Technical Specifications: While specific details are not listed, it is presumed to be a Level 2 charger with a J-1772 connector, standard for dealership use. The power output and pricing are unknown, though it is likely free for approved users.

Nearby Charging Stations & Regional Route Planning

For travel beyond the local area or for a much faster charge, EV drivers in Andalusia must plan for stops in neighboring towns. The absence of DC fast chargers in the immediate vicinity makes understanding the regional network crucial for preventing range anxiety and enabling long-distance travel.  

The main travel corridors out of Andalusia lead toward key charging infrastructure. Heading north on US-29 towards Montgomery, the town of Greenville on I-65 is a critical fast-charging hub. Traveling east on US-84 towards Dothan or west towards Mobile and the Gulf Coast, options can be found in towns like Evergreen, Brewton, and Enterprise.

Key EV Charging Stations Near Andalusia (Within ~60 Miles)

Detailed Descriptions of Key Regional Hubs

• Greenville, AL (~50 miles): The Electrify America station located at the Walmart at 501 Willow Ln is arguably the most important regional stop for non-Tesla drivers. Situated just off I-65, it offers multiple high-power DC fast chargers with both CCS and CHAdeMO connectors, making it compatible with nearly every EV capable of fast charging. This is an ideal place to stop for a quick charge when traveling to or from Montgomery or Birmingham.  
  • Power: Provides about 1 kilowatt (kW) of power.  
  • Speed: Adds only 2 to 5 miles of range per hour of charging. 
  • Best Use Case: Perfect for plugging in overnight at home or at a friend’s house when you have 10+ hours and don’t need to drive far the next day. Most EVs come with a Level 1 charging cord.
  • Evergreen, AL (~48 miles): For Tesla drivers, the Supercharger station at 90 Liberty Hill Place is a vital link for north-south travel. As Tesla continues to open its network, non-Tesla vehicles equipped with a NACS adapter may also be able to use these chargers, but drivers should confirm compatibility in the Tesla app beforehand.  Dothan, AL (~60 miles): The City of Dothan has invested in public DC fast charging infrastructure, with ChargePoint stations located on N. St. Andrews St. and at James Oates Park. These stations provide both CCS1 and CHAdeMO connectors, offering another excellent fast-charging option for those traveling east. A ChargePoint membership or app is required to use them. 
    

    Understanding EV Charging: A Practical Primer

    Not all chargers are created equal. The “level” of a charger refers to its power output, which directly determines how quickly it can add range to your vehicle’s battery. Here’s a simple breakdown of what these terms mean in the real world.

    Level 1 Charging (The Overnight Trickle)

    This is the slowest but most accessible form of charging. It uses a standard 120-volt household outlet, the same kind you use to plug in a lamp or a laptop.

  • Power: These chargers are significantly more powerful, with speeds ranging from 50 kW to 350 kW or more.
  • Speed: Can typically recharge a vehicle’s battery to 80% in about 30 minutes. The final 20% of charging is much slower to protect battery health.  
  • Best Use Case: Quick refueling stops along major highways during road trips. The three main connector types are CCS (the standard for most new EVs), CHAdeMO (found on the Nissan LEAF and some older models), and NACS (the Tesla standard).  Level 2 Charging (The All-Arounder)This is the most common type of public charger you’ll find, including the station at Andalusia’s Court Square. It is also the most popular solution for home charging installations.
    • Power: Uses a 240-volt circuit (similar to an electric stove or clothes dryer) and typically provides between 3 kW and 20 kW of power, with most public stations delivering around 7 kW. 
    • Speed: Adds about 10 to 25 miles of range per hour. A full charge from empty can take several hours (e.g., 4-8 hours), making it ideal for charging while you are busy with another activity. 
    • Best Use Case: Charging at public locations like shopping centers, workplaces, and downtown areas. It’s also the standard for home charging, as it can easily replenish a typical day’s driving range overnight.

    Level 3 Charging (DC Fast Charging for the Road)

    Often called DC Fast Charging (DCFC), this is the closest EV equivalent to a traditional gas station stop. These high-power stations are essential for long-distance road trips.

• Pro Tips for EV Drivers in Andalusia

  Driving an EV in an area with developing infrastructure is easy with a bit of planning. Here are some expert tips tailored to the Andalusia area.

  • Plan Ahead, Charge While You Wait: Since the only public option in town is Level 2, charging will take time. Integrate it into your plans. Use the Court Square charger as an opportunity to have lunch, visit the local shops, or handle errands downtown. A two-hour stop can add a crucial 40-50 miles of range.  
  • Embrace the Apps: Mobile apps are an EV driver’s best friend. Use PlugShare to read recent driver comments and check for issues like broken chargers or ICEing. Use network-specific apps like ChargePoint and Electrify America to verify a station’s operational status, see if it’s currently in use, and check the price before you even leave your house. 
  • Dealership Etiquette: Never assume a charger at a car dealership is for public use. As with the David Scott Lee Nissan station, these are typically private amenities. Always call the service department during business hours to politely ask for permission before making the trip.
  • Be Aware of “ICEing”: “ICEing” refers to an Internal Combustion Engine vehicle parking in a spot designated for EV charging, blocking access. This has been reported at the Court Square station. Unfortunately, if this happens, there is often little that can be done besides waiting or notifying the property owner if possible. It highlights the importance of having a backup plan.  
  • Understand Peak Times: With only two public plugs at Court Square, they can become a valuable commodity, especially on weekends or during local festivals. If you rely on public charging, try to charge during off-peak hours (e.g., early mornings or weekdays) to increase your chances of finding an open spot.

  Alabama’s EV Incentives and Future Infrastructure Plans

  While local infrastructure is growing, the State of Alabama is actively working to support the transition to electric transportation through financial incentives and a statewide strategic plan.

  Save Money: Rebates and Incentives for Alabama Drivers

  EV owners in Alabama can take advantage of several programs to lower the cost of charging and installation.

  • Alabama Power EV Home Charger Rebate: Residential customers of Alabama Power can receive a one-time $500 rebate for the purchase and installation of a Level 2 (240V) home charger. To qualify, you must be a customer in a single-family home and own or lease a battery-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. 

    Time-of-Use (TOU) Rates: Many electric utilities, including Alabama Power, offer special rate plans that significantly lower the cost of electricity during off-peak hours, typically from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.. Enrolling in a TOU plan and scheduling your EV to charge overnight is one of the most effective ways to save money. 

  • EV GridWise+ Charging Rewards: This program from Alabama Power offers customers a $50 sign-up incentive and ongoing rewards of up to $100 per year for enrolling their EV or smart charger in a managed charging program that helps balance the electric grid.  
  • Federal Tax Credits: A federal tax credit, known as the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit, may be available to help offset up to $1,000 of the cost of home charger installation. 

  The Big Picture: Alabama’s State EV Infrastructure Strategy

  The State of Alabama has a formal strategy to expand its charging network, guided by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA). A key component of this strategy is Alabama’s participation in the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program. This federally funded initiative is designed to build a reliable network of fast chargers across the country.  

• The NEVI program prioritizes placing high-speed charging stations every 50 miles along designated “Alternative Fuel Corridors,” which are primarily major interstate highways. This focus explains why fast chargers have been deployed in locations like Greenville (along I-65) before appearing in towns like Andalusia, which are on federal highways like US-84 and US-29. While this means rural areas off the interstates may wait longer for fast chargers, ADECA also administers state-funded grant programs to support charger installation on non-interstate corridors. To promote the benefits of electric transportation, the state has also launched the “Drive Electric Alabama” educational campaign.  
  

  Local Constraints: The Alabama EV Fee

  For a complete financial picture, it’s important for prospective owners to be aware of Alabama’s annual registration fee for electric vehicles. As of recent legislation, all-electric vehicle owners must pay an annual fee of $203, while plug-in hybrid owners pay $103. These fees are intended to help offset the loss of gas tax revenue used for road and bridge maintenance, and a portion of the funds is allocated to the state’s Electric Transportation Infrastructure Grant Program to help build more chargers.  

  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  Q1: Is the Court Square charging station in Andalusia still free? A: Based on the most recent user reports, the electricity for charging is free. However, there may be parking fees enforced by the city if you stay longer than four hours (240 minutes).

  Q2: Where is the closest DC fast charger to Andalusia? A: There are no DC fast chargers located directly within Andalusia. The closest options for a rapid charge are approximately 50-60 miles away in cities like Greenville (Electrify America), Evergreen (Tesla Supercharger), and Dothan (ChargePoint). 

  Q3: Can I use the EV charger at the David Scott Lee Nissan dealership? A: This station is marked as “Restricted” and is intended for dealership business, not as a reliable public charging option. You must call the dealership during business hours to ask for permission and confirm availability before driving there. 

  Q4: How fast can I realistically charge my EV in Andalusia? A: At the public Court Square station, you can expect Level 2 speeds of approximately 7 kW. This will add about 20-28 miles of range for every hour your vehicle is plugged in. A full charge will take several hours, so it’s best used for topping up while you are otherwise occupied downtown.  

  Conclusion: Charging Forward in Andalusia

  While the public EV charging infrastructure in Andalusia is still in its early stages, driving an electric vehicle in the region is entirely practical and enjoyable. Successful EV ownership here hinges on a combination of reliable home charging for daily needs and smart planning for regional travel. By utilizing the Level 2 station at Court Square during downtown visits and knowing the locations of key fast chargers in neighboring cities, drivers can confidently navigate Covington County and beyond. As Alabama continues to execute its statewide infrastructure plan, the number of charging options is poised to grow, making the switch to electric an increasingly convenient choice for all residents.