The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimated on September 30, 2026 that light-duty electric vehicles in the United States used nearly 14 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity in the first half of 2026. That is 8% more than in the second half of 2025, a clear slowdown from the 13% to 24% growth seen in six-month periods in recent years. EIA links the slower growth to lower EV sales after federal clean vehicle tax credits ended.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. light-duty EVs used nearly 14 billion kWh in the first half of 2026.
- Growth slowed to 8% from 13%–24% in earlier six-month periods.
- New EV sales fell 19% after federal tax credits ended.
- EV electricity use has still more than doubled since early 2023.
Key Figures
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| EV electricity use, first half 2026 | Nearly 14 billion kWh |
| Change vs second half 2025 | +8% |
| Typical growth in recent six-month periods | 13%–24% |
| Change since first half 2023 | More than doubled |
| New EV sales, 1H 2026 vs 2H 2025 | Down 19% |
| EV share of registered light-duty vehicles (2024) | 2% |
Background
The New Clean Vehicle Credit and the Qualified Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit ended on September 30, 2025. EIA notes that new EV sales are small compared with the total number of vehicles on the road, so electricity demand from EVs keeps rising even when sales fall, but at a slower pace.
The figures are modeled estimates rather than survey results. They cover on-road vehicles weighing 8,500 pounds or less, including both battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models, and are published in EIA’s Monthly Energy Review and State Energy Data System. Conventional hybrids and fuel cell vehicles are not included.
What It Means
For utilities and grid planners, the data shows EV load is still growing but more gradually, which gives time to put managed charging programs in place before the next growth phase. For installers and home charger sellers, the installed base keeps expanding, and each new EV still needs reliable charging at home or work.
Slower sales also raise the value of smart features. Home chargers with scheduling help drivers shift use to off-peak tariffs, and utilities often prefer that load pattern. EVDANCE’s residential charging solutions include the EV-ACT5006T 48A Level 2 wall charger for North American homes.
Related Reading
- How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Car at Home?
- Wallbox Home Charger News 2026: Rebates Shift as Tax Credit Ends
- How Many kWh Does It Take to Charge an EV?
