The Best Commercial EV Charging Solutions for Your Business
Need commercial EV charging stations for your business? This guide covers the types, benefits, costs, and installation processes to help you choose the best solutions.
Key Takeaways
Commercial EV charging stations come in two main types: AC for slower charging suited for home and workplace use, and DC for fast charging, ideal for public locations.
Installing EV charging points enhances business visibility, attracts eco-conscious customers, generates additional revenue, and improves employee satisfaction.
Cost considerations include initial installation expenses, potential government grants, and long-term savings through smart charging solutions and renewable energy integration.
Understanding Commercial EV Charging Stations
Commercial EV charging stations come in various forms, each tailored to meet specific business needs. The two main types of electricity used in EV charging are alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). AC charging is typically used for home and workplace settings due to its lower cost and sufficient charging time, while DC charging is preferred for public charging stations along major roadways to cater to drivers needing quick recharges. The efficiency of these chargers varies, with DC charging being faster but also dependent on the specific EV and charger type.
AC charging stations are commonly used by electric vehicle drivers at home, work, and around town. These stations can add up to 40 miles of range to electric vehicles per hour, making them ideal for locations where vehicles are parked for extended periods. On the other hand, DC fast charging stations operate at a higher power range and can charge an EV to 80% in as little as 20 minutes. Emerging technologies like higher-capacity chargers and wireless charging are rapidly evolving, necessitating businesses to stay updated with advancements.
Commercial EV charging solutions often involve a mix of AC and DC charging to cater to different requirements. Understanding the specific needs of your business environment and the current electrical infrastructure is crucial for selecting the right type of commercial EV charging station. Assessing these factors will enable you to make informed decisions that align with your business goals and provide a seamless experience for your customers.
Benefits of Installing EV Charging Points for Businesses
Installing EV charging points at your business premises offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it can significantly influence the choice of hotel or shopping destination for many EV drivers. Integrating EV charging stations can enhance your business’s visibility on major booking and review platforms, attracting eco-conscious consumers and providing a competitive edge.
While the profit or revenue from charging transactions is beneficial, it is not the main reason for implementing EV charging solutions. The real advantage lies in the new revenue streams and customers that EV charging can attract. With GoPlugable's EV Business Suite, you can advertise your business directly to EV drivers. For example, you can create offers like "2 hours of free charging for Sunday brunch" and send these promotions to EV users near your venue. This feature sets our solution apart from competitors like Monta or Fuuse.
Installing EV charging stations can generate additional revenue through charging fees, with a commercial EV charging point potentially generating an estimated net profit of £150 per year. Beyond financial gains, EV chargers enhance brand reputation and align your business with sustainability goals, improving your public image and meeting corporate social responsibility objectives.
Moreover, EV charging is different from fueling ICE cars. Commercial EV charging is not a replacement for fuel stations. EVs are typically charged when their users are doing other things like eating, taking a rest, or sleeping. Hence, it's not always about a quick recharge. In fact, 80% of the EV drivers we surveyed use public charging points less than four times a month. Therefore, it's about having the right combination of charging options—a mix of both rapid and slow charging solutions.
EV charging is no longer just an amenity or a check-the-box feature, especially with the ban on ICE cars in the EU and UK by 2035. Businesses that implement EV charging solutions can also improve employee satisfaction and retention by offering convenient charging options at work. This not only fosters a positive work environment but also showcases your commitment to sustainable practices. Overall, the rise in electric vehicle ownership presents a unique opportunity for businesses to implement charging solutions that drive growth and sustainability.
Cost Considerations for Commercial EV Chargers
Understanding the cost considerations of installing commercial EV chargers is essential for effective financial planning. The average expense for installing a commercial EV charging station ranges from £2,000 to £3,000 plus VAT for a 7-22 kW AC charger, assuming they are wall-mounted. However, the cost can vary depending on the site’s specific requirements, including civil and electrical wiring work.
There are fully funded options where service providers take over your parking area, set up the infrastructure at zero cost to you, and give you a slice of the revenue. Alternatively, you can install your own hardware with upfront capital expenditure (CAPEX) costs. Depending on your business model, you can choose either option. However, for long-term business benefits, we recommend owning the chargers with upfront CAPEX costs while also considering a mix of fully funded options.
Why? Because owning the chargers allows you to control the customer journey and pricing. In a fully funded model, you have no say on pricing or access to data. EV charging is not just an amenity; with our business EV suite, you can own the data, control the customer experience, advertise your business, and attract more walk-ins.
Also, cost implications are not just about EV hardware installation. Civil and wiring work can add to the expenses. Sometimes, you might need additional grid capacity, requiring more investment to get more power. This is likely the scenario if you are installing rapid chargers. However, for slower chargers, you might not need this extra investment.
Government grants are available to help offset installation costs, making it more feasible for businesses to invest in EV charging points. Annual operating costs for an EV charger generally do not exceed £100 per unit. Smart EV chargers can further optimize charging costs by utilizing cheaper off-peak electricity. Long-term operational savings can be realized when adopting renewable energy for EV charging, despite higher initial setup costs.
Businesses with fleet operations can save significantly on demand charges by optimizing charging processes. Understanding both the upfront and ongoing costs associated with EV chargers is key to making informed decisions, effectively managing expenses, and maximizing the benefits of your EV charging infrastructure.
Types of Commercial EV Charging Solutions
Cost-Based EV Charging Solutions
Fully Funded Options
For businesses looking to implement EV charging solutions without the burden of upfront capital expenditure (CAPEX), fully funded options are an attractive choice. In this model, service providers take over your parking area, set up the infrastructure at zero cost to you, and share a portion of the revenue generated from the charging stations. This approach allows businesses to offer EV charging facilities without the financial strain of initial investments. It also provides the benefit of having a professional service provider manage the installation and maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Business-Owned Options
Alternatively, businesses can choose to invest in their own EV charging infrastructure with upfront CAPEX costs. This approach offers long-term benefits, including control over the customer journey, pricing, and access to valuable data. Owning the chargers allows businesses to customize the charging experience, integrate branding, and implement targeted promotions to attract more customers. While the initial investment may be higher, the potential for increased revenue and customer satisfaction makes it a worthwhile consideration. Additionally, government grants are available to help offset installation costs, making it more feasible for businesses to invest in EV charging points.
Types of EV Charging Solutions
AC Charging Stations
AC charging stations are commonly used by electric vehicle drivers at home, work, and around town. These stations typically offer a standard charging rate of 3 kW, adding up to 40 miles of range per hour to electric vehicles. Charging an EV using a 3 kW charging point typically takes between 8 to 14 hours, making it suitable for locations where vehicles are parked for extended periods. AC charging solutions are ideal for workplace chargers, retail car parks, and other business premises where customers and employees can charge their electric vehicles over a longer period.
Type 1 and Type 2 Charging
Type 1 and Type 2 charging connectors are the most common types used for AC charging. Type 1 connectors are typically found in North American and Japanese vehicles, while Type 2 connectors are standard in European vehicles. Type 2 chargers offer a higher charging rate, making them more suitable for commercial settings where faster charging is desired. These connectors are compatible with a wide range of electric vehicles, providing flexibility for businesses catering to diverse customer needs.
22 kW Fast Charging
22 kW fast charging stations provide a higher power output compared to standard AC chargers, reducing the charging time significantly. These stations can add up to 80 miles of range per hour, making them ideal for businesses that need to offer quicker charging solutions. 22 kW fast chargers are suitable for locations with moderate vehicle turnover, such as shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels. They strike a balance between cost and charging speed, offering a practical solution for businesses looking to enhance their EV charging facilities.
DC Fast Charging
DC fast charging stations provide a reliable and premium charging experience, allowing an EV to charge up to 80% in as little as 20 minutes. These stations typically operate at a charging power range of 50 kW and above, making them ideal for locations with high vehicle turnover. While DC fast charging solutions offer faster charging times, they come with higher costs due to the more expensive stations and the complexities involved in construction. However, businesses can benefit from these solutions by alleviating upfront and long-term costs while supporting sustainable practices. DC fast charging stations are a great option for businesses looking to provide a quick turnaround for their EV-driving customers.
AC Charging Stations
AC charging stations are commonly relied upon by EV drivers at home, work, and around town. These stations typically offer a standard charging rate of 3 kW, adding up to 40 miles of range per hour to electric vehicles. Charging an EV using a 3 kW charging point typically takes between 8 to 14 hours, making it suitable for locations where vehicles are parked for extended periods.
One of the main advantages of AC charging stations is that they add very little to the electrical load of a business. This makes them an economical choice for businesses looking to offer EV charging without incurring significant additional costs. AC charging solutions are ideal for workplace chargers, retail car parks, and other business premises where customers and employees can charge their electric vehicles over a longer period.
DC Fast Charging Stations
DC fast charging stations provide a reliable and premium charging experience, allowing an EV to charge up to 80% in as little as 20 minutes. These stations typically operate at a charging power range of 7-22 kW, with a common output of 50 kW. Charging at rapid points typically takes between 30-60 minutes, making them ideal for locations with high vehicle turnover.
While DC fast charging solutions offer faster charging times, they come with higher costs due to the more expensive stations and the complexities involved in construction. However, businesses can benefit from these solutions by alleviating upfront and long-term costs while supporting sustainable practices.
DC fast charging stations are a great option for businesses looking to provide a quick turnaround for their EV driving customers.
Ultra-Rapid Charging Stations
Ultra-rapid charging stations offer high-speed charging capabilities, making them an essential component of EV infrastructure. These stations have a charging rate ranging from 100-200 kW, allowing an EV to charge in approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Ultra-rapid charging stations require substantial infrastructure, including dedicated transformers, to support their high power requirements.
These stations are strategically placed at locations like motorway service areas for maximum accessibility. Ultra-rapid charging enables businesses to meet the needs of EV drivers requiring quick recharges during long journeys.
Ultra-rapid charging stations are a critical part of the electric revolution, providing the speed and convenience needed to support the growing number of zero-emission vehicles on the road.
Tailored EV Charging Strategies for Different Industries
Tailored EV charging strategies are crucial for meeting the unique needs of different industries. Understanding local EV adoption and potential user demand is essential for selecting an appropriate charging solution. Customized strategies help businesses align their EV charging infrastructure with their specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance and customer satisfaction.
Choosing the right charging speed is critical, as it impacts customer satisfaction and the longevity of EV batteries. Tailored EV charging strategies vary by industry, including retail and hospitality, workplaces, and fleet operators. Each industry has unique needs and challenges, making a one-size-fits-all approach ineffective.
Retail and Hospitality
Retail and hospitality businesses can greatly benefit from installing EV charging stations. These stations attract customers by being visible on public charging maps, encouraging them to stay longer and spend more. A significant 63% of EV drivers would frequent venues that have charging infrastructure, making it a valuable addition to any retail or hospitality business. Find more on these data points from our survey here.
Offering reliable EV charging as a modern amenity can enhance guest experience and attract more visitors to hospitality businesses. For retail businesses, EV charging stations boost revenue by optimizing shoppers’ dwell time and capturing valuable customer data. Golf clubs, for example, can set pricing structures and attract new clientele while gaining insights into energy consumption through EV charging solutions.
DC fast charging stations are designed for quick turnaround, making them ideal for locations with high vehicle turnover. By offering EV charging, retail and hospitality businesses can enhance their customer experience, generate additional revenue, and build a loyal customer base.
Workplaces
Workplaces can significantly benefit from offering EV chargers. Providing charging facilities can improve employee satisfaction and retention by offering convenient charging options at their place of work. This not only enhances the overall employee experience but also showcases the business’s commitment to sustainable practices.
AC charging solutions are typically suitable for overnight charging at workplaces or residential areas. By adding AC chargers, businesses can encourage employees to adopt electric vehicles and contribute to a greener environment.
Workplaces can also monetize chargers during non-working hours by opening them to the public, creating an additional revenue stream.
Fleet Operators
Fleet operators gain significant advantages from using EV charging solutions. These solutions allow fleet operators to:
Monitor energy consumption effectively
Integrate vehicle performance insights to enhance operational efficiency
Reduce costs
Future-proof their fleets with modern, efficient technologies
Additionally, EV charging solutions enable fleet operators to control access and manage their charging infrastructure more efficiently. This not only improves the overall performance of the fleet but also helps in achieving sustainability goals and reducing the environmental impact of their operations.
Choosing the Right Commercial EV Charger Brand
Selecting the right commercial EV charger brand is crucial for ensuring the effective operation of your charging stations. We recommend Myenergi (Zappi) and Ratio devices for commercial EV charging.
Zappi’s commercial mode links chargers to various EV management solutions, enabling pay-per-charge, expense tracking, fleet management, and more. Ratio offers industry-leading EV charging and production solutions, expert consultancy, and end-to-end support. With a wealth of experience helping a range of businesses across the UK and Europe, Ratio is fully equipped to make your EV plans a reality.
Both brands provide installation, ongoing support, and warranties to ensure maximum uptime and minimal maintenance costs. While Myenergi (Zappi) and Ratio are our recommended brands, we work with all commercial EV charging brands that are OCCP compatible, offering a wide range of reliable and comprehensive support services to enhance the efficiency of your EV charging programs.
Installation and Maintenance of Commercial EV Charging Points
The installation and maintenance of commercial EV charging points require careful planning and execution. Evaluating your existing electrical infrastructure helps in determining the feasibility and cost of installing new chargers. The installation process by CMS starts with an initial survey followed by complete design, supply, and installation, aiming to minimize disruption to business operations.
Designing fast-charging stations with capabilities for future expansion is vital to accommodate growing power needs. CMS provides customized solutions for EV charging, including corporate branding and different mounting options, ensuring that your charging infrastructure is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and reliability of the charging stations.
Future-Proofing Your Business with EV Charging Solutions
Future-proofing your business with EV charging solutions ensures that you are well-prepared for the growing demand for electric vehicles. Opting for scalable charging solutions allows businesses to adjust to increasing demand and technological advancements. By staying ahead of the curve, businesses can avoid costly upgrades and ensure their infrastructure remains up-to-date and scalable.
Integrating renewable energy sources with EV charging stations decreases reliance on fossil fuels and enhances sustainability. This approach aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and provides long-term operational savings.
Adapting to relevant regulations, like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, aligns EV charging solutions with current tax credits and policies. Future-proofing your business with EV charging solutions is an investment in a sustainable and profitable future.
The Role of Renewable Energy in EV Charging
Renewable energy plays a pivotal role in the sustainability of EV charging solutions. Electric vehicle charging points can be effectively combined with solar panel systems to enhance sustainability. Incorporating distributed energy resources (DER) supports efficient charging solutions and reduces reliance on traditional utilities. Connecting EV charging stations directly to renewable installations minimizes energy loss during transmission.
Participating in demand response programs allows EV charging to adjust based on renewable energy availability, maximizing efficiency. DER-supported fast-charging stations provide a sustainable and economically viable foundation for a robust EV charging network.
Energy storage systems are essential for managing the intermittent supply of renewable energy, ensuring reliability and efficiency in EV charging. Smart grid technologies optimize the distribution of renewable energy to EV charging stations, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Case Studies: Successful Commercial EV Charging Implementations
Real-world case studies provide valuable insights into the successful implementation of commercial EV charging solutions. Businesses that have adopted these solutions demonstrate how they achieved their sustainability goals through the utilization of commercial EV charging stations. For instance, a retail chain that installed EV chargers saw an increase in customer footfall and dwell time, leading to higher sales and improved customer satisfaction.
Critical factors for ensuring long-term operational success with EV charging solutions include reliable network support and effective customer service. Another case study highlighted a hospitality business that integrated EV charging points, enhancing guest experience and attracting more visitors. These implementations illustrate the importance of a strategic approach and the alignment of EV charging with broader sustainability goals.
The lessons learned from these case studies emphasize the need for businesses to invest in reliable technology and comprehensive support services. By doing so, they can maximize the benefits of their EV charging infrastructure and contribute to a sustainable future.
The GoPlugable Advantage
GoPlugable offers complete EV charging solutions tailored to the specific needs of various industries, ensuring quality and reliability. By partnering with industry leaders, GoPlugable enhances the customer experience with modern EV charging amenities. Their turnkey solutions are designed for markets such as hospitality, fleets, retail, workplaces, and recreational clubs.
Collaborating with partners like Myenergi, GoPlugable provides top-tier charging solutions that enhance overall service quality. With GoPlugable, businesses can benefit from reliable, convenient, and efficient EV charging solutions that drive customer satisfaction and support sustainable practices.
Our recommendation in terms of next steps
Begin your journey toward implementing EV charging solutions by identifying who manages your parking area power—be it an external agency, the OMC, or building management. Assess your budget and explore different types of chargers, such as Type 1 Smartpoint or Type 2, based on your installation area and needs.
Once you have decided on the approach, talk to our sales team and explore GoPlugable’s business EV suite for business. Request a half-hour report for the last 12 months from your electricity supplier to understand your Kwhrs usage and peak loading.
This detail is required to estimate how many or what type of charge points can be installed. Taking these steps will help you make informed decisions and effectively plan your EV charging infrastructure.
Summary
In summary, installing commercial EV charging solutions offers numerous benefits, including attracting customers, generating additional revenue, and enhancing your business’s sustainability credentials. By understanding the different types of EV chargers, their costs, and tailored strategies for various industries, businesses can make informed decisions that align with their goals.
Future-proofing your business with scalable and renewable energy-integrated charging solutions is an investment in a sustainable future. GoPlugable offers reliable and comprehensive EV charging solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries. By taking the recommended next steps, businesses can effectively plan and implement their EV charging infrastructure, driving growth and sustainability. Embrace the electric revolution and make a positive impact on the environment and your business’s bottom line.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a commercial EV charger cost UK?
What are the prices of commercial charging points? Installation costs for commercial EV chargers can vary from £1000 + VAT based upon charger model communication, number of charging devices installed and specific installation requirements such as cabling, fixing or base etc.
What benefits do fleet operators gain from using GoPlugable's solutions?
Fleet operators benefit from GoPlugable's solutions by effectively monitoring energy consumption, gaining valuable insights into vehicle performance, and reducing costs, all while ensuring their fleet remains future-ready.
What advantages do retail businesses have by installing EV chargers?
Installing EV chargers provides retail businesses the opportunity to attract more customers and enhance their shopping experience, while enabling them to gather valuable customer data and manage charging rates effectively.
How can workplaces benefit from offering EV chargers?** **?
Implementing EV chargers at workplaces not only attracts and retains talent but also improves employee satisfaction and can generate additional revenue by making chargers available to the public during off-hours.