Don't Wait Until Your Employees Ask: Strategic EV Charging for Commercial Facilities

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is changing how businesses think about transportation. According to a recent survey, over 75% of employees consider access to EV charging when evaluating potential employers. As this demand grows, companies need to ensure their facilities are equipped to meet it. But there is a crucial question to address: can your electrical system support the increased load?

The Question You Should Be Asking

When planning for EV charging, it's essential not only to consider the number of chargers you want to install but also to evaluate the capacity of your electrical system. Each Level 2 AC charger can draw between 7-22 kW. If you plan for multiple chargers, that can quickly add up and strain your facility's electrical load.

Without careful planning, businesses might face several significant risks:

• System Overload: Insufficient electrical capacity can lead to circuit overloads, resulting in outages or potential safety hazards. For example, a business with a typical 200-amp service could face serious issues if multiple chargers are added without upgrades.

• Costly Upgrades: If your existing system falls short, you may need to invest in costly upgrades. Upgrading a commercial electrical system can often exceed £20,000.

  
  

• Underperforming Chargers: Poorly designed systems can lead to chargers that fail to operate at full capacity. For instance, if a charger is incorrectly wired, it might deliver only half its intended power.

  
  

• Missed Incentives: Without a strategic approach, businesses may overlook available incentives for EV infrastructure that could otherwise reduce costs by up to 30%.

  
  

Beyond Installation - Strategic EV Infrastructure

Savvy businesses recognize the importance of strategic planning before applying for necessary permits. An effective EV infrastructure plan not only ensures compliance with regulations but also maximizes your investment.

By evaluating factors such as the best locations for chargers, patterns of usage, and future growth projections, you can create a robust network of charging stations that meets employee needs effectively.

Modern EV charging station in a commercial facility

Our Electrical Design Consultation Covers

To assist businesses in navigating the complexities of EV charging infrastructure, our electrical design consultation includes:

• Comprehensive Load Analysis: We assess your current electrical capacity and anticipate your future needs to avoid any surprises down the road.

  
  

• Strategic Charger Placement Recommendations: We help identify the best locations for chargers, maximizing both accessibility and efficiency.

  
  

• Integration with Existing Infrastructure: We ensure that new chargers fit seamlessly into your current electrical systems.

  
  

• Utility Rate Optimization: We analyse your utility rates to help minimize costs linked to charging.

  
  

• Solar Pairing Options: We explore how to integrate solar energy for sustainable and cost-effective charging solutions.

  
  

• Scalable Future-Ready Solutions: Our designs are adaptable to your business’s growth, enabling you to meet evolving demands.

  
  

The Cost of Poor Planning

One common mistake businesses make is installing EV chargers without an in-depth analysis of their electrical capacity. This oversight can lead to the discovery of expansion limits only after the installation. The costs associated with retrofits can quickly climb into the tens of thousands of dollars.

Proper planning is crucial. It not only prevents these errors, but it also ensures that your charging infrastructure operates reliably. By dedicating time and resources upfront, you can avoid the headaches associated with inadequate preparation.

Your Competitive Advantage

Implementing EV charging infrastructure offers a significant edge for your business. Here’s how:

• Attracting Talent: By providing workplace EV charging, you become more appealing to top talent. For instance, companies with charging stations see a 10-15% increase in job applications.

  
  

• Demonstrating Environmental Commitment: Investing in such infrastructure highlights your commitment to sustainability and helps lower your carbon footprint.

  
  

• Reducing Costs with Solar Integration: Businesses that pair EV charging with solar energy can experience savings upwards of 50% on their utility bills over time.

  
  

Strategic planning for EV charging ensures businesses are prepared for the future of transportation rather than playing catch-up.

Ready to Discuss Your EV Strategy?

Every facility has unique requirements, and a standard approach to EV charging may not suffice. Thoughtful design and planning allow you to gain the most from your investment, whether you are installing your first charger or developing a comprehensive network.

If you're curious about your facility's readiness for EV infrastructure, reach out for a consultation.

Solar panel installation on a commercial building

Looking Ahead

As the demand for EV charging infrastructure continues to rise, businesses must take a proactive approach to planning. By focusing on system capacity, thoughtful design, and future scalability, you can ensure your facility will effectively meet the needs of employees and the ongoing evolution of transportation.

ZESTEC Services specializes in affordable electrical design consulting, particularly in EV infrastructure and solar integration. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, we are equipped to help you navigate the intricacies of workplace EV charging and optimize your electrical systems for the future.

Have questions about your facility’s EV readiness? Reach out to us today for a consultation.