New Rate Structure Starts in New Year for Rochester’s EV Charging Stations

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- The City of Rochester is shaking up its rate structure for electric vehicle (EV) chargers. 

See Also: Rochester Leaders Approve 2026-27 City Budget 

A news release issued on Wednesday says the changes will go into place on January 1, 2026. 

The changes include a fee per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and an hourly idle fee. 

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City of Rochester Announces kWh EV Charging Rate, Hourly Idle Fee

Starting in the new year, users of the city-owned Level 2 EV charges will pay a fee of $0.17 per kWh. 

There will also be a $5 hourly idle fee that will kick in 30 minutes after the EV has finished charging, the news release says. 

City officials say the switch to the per kWh fee structure ensures residents will only pay for the electricity they use and that the idle fee will encourage more turnover at the city’s charging stations. 

The news release also says the new rate structure is used by most major charging networks and follows a new framework approved by the State of Minnesota. 

“The City’s updated rate structure reflects our commitment to providing reliable and equitable access to public charging,” said Kayla Betzold, City Sustainability Coordinator. “As electric vehicle adoption continues to grow, this approach ensures that chargers are available for everyone while keeping rates affordable and aligned with state standards.” 

The City of Rochester owns 18 EV charging stations. 12 are located in downtown Rochester at the government center and city ramps, four are stationed at city offices along West River Rd. NW and two are at Rochester Public Utilities headquarters.