How to prepare your workplace for installing EV charging stations

The rise of EV charging at the workplace

Electric mobility is growing fast around the world. In fact, electric vehicle (EV) sales surpassed 10 million for the first time last year. It’s no surprise, then, that more companies are exploring the potential of electric vehicles in the workplace.

One key opportunity is providing EV charging at work. In fact, workplaces are already the second most popular place for EV drivers to charge their cars. This trend is only going to grow as more employees switch to electric vehicles.

But offering EV charging isn’t just about buying a station and plugging it in. You need to consider your location's unique characteristics, as they will affect what’s feasible and practical from an EV charging perspective.

Let’s look at four important aspects to think about when installing EV charging at your workplace.

1. Create an EV charging business case for your workplace location

Before diving into the technical details, it's important to take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Installing EV charging stations is a significant investment, and building a solid business case can help justify the cost.

Beyond the cost of the equipment, consider the demand for EV charging at your location and develop a strategy that aligns with your company’s goals. For example, you might offer free or discounted charging to employees, or even monetize the service by opening it to the public.

There are also differences between slow (AC) and fast (DC) charging stations, which affect installation complexity, cost, and usage patterns.

Also, keep in mind that while government incentives may be available, there could be additional costs involved, such as upgrading your electrical system or applying for permits.

All of these factors can influence the timeline and budget, so doing thorough research upfront is essential, especially if you have multiple locations.

What type of charging station do you need?

When deciding on the type and number of charging stations, consider how they will be used. Are you primarily serving employees, or is the charging for customers and guests?

Employees may stay all day, while guests might only be there for a short time. If your workforce travels frequently, fast chargers may be more suitable.

Depending on your needs, regular AC charging stations may be sufficient for full-day charging. However, if you want quick top-ups, DC fast chargers could be a better fit.

In many cases, a mix of AC and DC chargers offers the best flexibility for different user types and scenarios.

For more information on choosing the right charger for your workplace, check out our detailed article on the topic.

2. Prepare your workplace for installing EV charging stations

Once you’ve built a strong business case, the next step is preparing your workplace for installation.

Unlike a standard power outlet, EV charging stations require specialized wiring and a direct connection to your meter and circuit box. This means that older meters may need to be upgraded.

You'll likely need to hire a qualified electrician for the job, which adds to the cost but ensures everything is done safely and correctly.

3. Conduct a detailed site analysis and evaluate the grid connection

No matter how good a charging station is, it won’t work unless it fits your space and infrastructure. That’s why a detailed site analysis is crucial before making any decisions.

Location-specific needs and limitations

Consider parking availability, access to electricity, and the size of the charging station. Some models can be wall-mounted, while others are freestanding.

Also, remember that DC chargers are bulkier than AC ones because they convert AC power from the grid to DC.

Electrical capacity and grid connection

The number of chargers you plan to install affects your electrical system. A single station may not cause issues, but a dozen may require an upgrade.

It's also important to check with your utility company to understand the feasibility of connecting to the grid and any potential upgrades needed.

Getting more grid capacity is expensive

Upgrading your electrical system can be costly. Hanno Klausmeier from SAP Labs France learned this firsthand when he requested additional grid capacity.

 

However, he found creative solutions like integrating renewable energy and using storage batteries to avoid expensive upgrades. Sometimes, thinking outside the box can save money and provide long-term benefits.

If you're interested in learning more about the challenges of installing workplace EV charging, check out our podcast episode.

4. Have a future-proof outlook

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common, and their presence will only grow in the coming years. That’s why it’s important to ensure your EV charging infrastructure meets your needs now and in the future.

This could mean planning for more EVs among your employees or customers, or ensuring your infrastructure can easily accommodate future expansion without major overhauls.

As Linda Grave, CEO of EV driver, said in a recent REVOLUTION Live podcast:

“Don’t just build charging infrastructure that meets today’s requirements or needs, they should prepare for the next phase. And this starts with the groundwork, the construction, and everything you're laying, whether it be water, electricity, gas, or whatever it might be, this is the time to be thinking about future-proofing your site.” – Linda Grave

 

Other tips to get started with workplace EV charging

While the cost of installing EV charging stations is considerable, it often pays off in the long run. It can attract new talent, improve employee satisfaction, support sustainability goals, or even generate revenue if you open it to the public.

After installation, maintenance is another factor to consider. The cost varies depending on the number of chargers and their type. Many manufacturers offer maintenance plans to keep your chargers running smoothly over time.

Preparing your business for the future of mobility

With upcoming bans on combustion engines and stricter emissions regulations worldwide, investing in EV charging is a smart move for businesses. It supports sustainability efforts and ensures readiness for the future.

EV charging solutions aren’t one-size-fits-all, and your location’s specifics will determine which option works best. If you’re considering installing EV charging stations at your workplace, explore our workplace solutions to learn everything you need to know.