Installing an EV charger can position your business as forward-thinking, eco-conscious, and ready to meet the needs of modern consumers. But how do you make sure you’re making the right choice?
1) What Type of EV Charger is Right for Your Business?
Not all EV chargers are the same, and choosing the right one depends on your goals and the needs of your customers or employees. EV chargers come in three main categories: Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast chargers. Each type offers different charging speeds and costs.
- Level 1 Chargers – These are the slowest option, typically adding about 8 km of range per hour. They’re inexpensive but better suited for residential use.
- Level 2 Chargers – Ideal for most businesses, these chargers add around 30-50 km of range per hour and are commonly used in workplaces, shopping centres, and public car parks.
- DC Fast Chargers – The quickest and most expensive option, capable of charging up to 80% in under an hour. These are ideal for businesses that want to support long-distance EV drivers or attract high-volume traffic.
Think about who will use your chargers and how long they’ll be parked. A workplace might only need Level 2 chargers for employees parked for several hours, while a service station or shopping centre might benefit from the speed of DC fast chargers. Matching the charger to your business model is a critical first step.
2) What Are the Costs Involved?
Installing an EV charger isn’t just about the initial purchase. There are several costs to consider, so it’s important to understand the full picture before committing.
First, there’s the cost of the charger itself, which varies depending on the type you choose. Level 2 chargers are generally more affordable, while DC fast chargers can run into the tens of thousands of dollars.
Then, there’s the installation cost, which depends on factors like the location of the charger, the condition of your electrical infrastructure, and the distance to your power source. In some cases, upgrades to your power supply or transformer might be necessary, which can add significant expense.
Finally, ongoing costs like electricity usage and maintenance should be factored in. Are you planning to offer free charging, or will users pay a fee? Understanding these costs upfront will help you make an informed decision and avoid surprises down the line.
3) Where Should You Install the Charger?
Location is everything when it comes to EV charging installation. A poorly placed charger might not attract as many users, while a well-thought-out location can maximise its value. Think about visibility, accessibility, and convenience.
High-traffic areas, such as parking spaces near entrances or along main thoroughfares, are ideal. You’ll also want to consider whether the charger will be accessible 24/7 or only during business hours. If your business has a car park, placing the chargers in designated EV parking spots can help manage traffic flow and ensure that spaces aren’t misused by non-EV drivers.
Another key factor is the proximity to your electrical infrastructure. Placing chargers far from your power supply can drive up installation costs due to longer wiring requirements. Balancing accessibility with practicality will help you get the most out of your EV charger investment.
4) Will Your Electrical System Handle the Load?
Before you install an EV charger, it’s essential to evaluate your electrical capacity. EV chargers can draw significant power, especially if you’re installing multiple units or a DC fast charger. Your current system might need an upgrade to handle the additional load.
Start by consulting with an electrician or a professional installer to assess your system. They’ll check factors like your transformer capacity, circuit breakers, and whether your building can support the energy demand of EV charging.
It’s also worth considering future scalability. If you think you’ll need more chargers in a few years, planning for additional capacity now can save you money and hassle later.
5) How Will You Manage and Monitor Charging?
Once your EV charger is installed, how will you manage its usage? Modern EV chargers often come with software that lets you monitor charging sessions, set pricing, and track energy consumption.
For example, some chargers allow you to set usage fees, offering a way to recoup electricity costs or even generate additional revenue. Others let you control who can use the charger—helpful if you want to restrict access to employees or paying customers.
You might also want to monitor charging behaviour. Are people using the charger during peak hours? How much electricity is being consumed? Insights like these can inform your energy management strategies and help optimise the system.
Finally, don’t forget about maintenance. Many charging systems offer remote diagnostics and troubleshooting, reducing downtime if something goes wrong. Checking the support and warranty options before purchase will ensure you’re covered in case of issues.
Why an EV Charger Could Be a Smart Move for Your Business
EV charging isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s quickly becoming an expectation. By offering EV charging, your business shows that it’s forward-thinking and committed to sustainability, which can attract eco-conscious customers and employees. It can also increase foot traffic, as EV drivers are likely to spend time (and money) at businesses where they charge their vehicles.
Even if your business doesn’t cater directly to EV owners today, preparing for the future is a smart move. The adoption of electric vehicles is growing rapidly, and installing a charger now could put you ahead of the curve.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether it’s choosing the right type of charger, planning for costs, or finding the perfect location, a little preparation can go a long way. By taking the time to plan now, you’ll be setting your business up for success in an increasingly electric future.