EV Basics

Understand how EVs work!

How do EVs work?

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, require less maintenance and drive feel is just like the cars you’re used to.

Get a look under the hood

Watch a video from the Department of Energy about how EVs work and get a detailed look at the key components such as the battery, motor, charge ports and controllers.

How do electric cars work?

Learn the basics about EVs

Watch an animated video that explains EV basics

Learn the basics about Electric Vehicles

EV Blog Posts

Learn more about EVs!

solar charging

OPALCO’s EV Road Trip – Featuring the Switch-It-Up Pup

In the Fall of 2021, Krista Bouchey, Communication Specialist for Orcas Power & Light Co-op (OPALCO) set out on a drive through Washington State with her dog, Pepper, in OPALCO’s … Read more
electric ferries

WSF: Electrify the San Juan Islands Ferry Routes FIRST — Don’t delay protection of this critical area of the Salish Sea

The current WS Ferries Long range plan for deploying electric ferries puts the San Juan routes last on the list. Why lose decades in our efforts to protect this critical … Read more
Switch It up!

Switch it Up! puts thousands back in members’ pockets

OPALCO is now offering on-bill financing for members who want to Switch it Up! and install super-efficient ductless heat pumps, heat pump water heaters and electric vehicle chargers. These upgrades … Read more