Most companies will indeed be putting in electric car charging stations due to increased demand for eco-friendly modes of transportation along with electric car popularity.
Where to place EV charging stations is a decision that’s dependent on various factors, from cost and speed to convenience and long-term benefits for your organization in business places, public areas, or homes.
We are going to discuss in this blog the main differences between commercial, public, and home charging stations. This will help your business make a smart choice about EV charging setup.
Commercial vs. Public vs. Home Charging Stations
As a business owner, you must first understand the benefits and limitations of each type of EV charging station.
1. Cost Comparison
The cost of EV charging infrastructure should be the primary consideration. Charging an EV at home is generally the most cost-effective option, with the average cost of charging at home being approximately $0.13 per kWh.
However, public and commercial charging stations charge $0.17 per kWh. For example, if a 90 kWh battery is fully recharged, it would cost less than $13 per month when charged at home, and thus EVs are the long-run economical choice.
The installation of home chargers has some things to think about, like the initial costs for installation and possible rebates or incentives from utility companies. Businesses should also check local rules about home charging to make sure they follow them.
2. EV Charging Speed and Levels
Another consideration is charging speed, especially for companies that need to quickly turn around fleet or employee vehicles. Electric vehicle charging is generally divided into three main levels: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 EV charging:
- Level I Charging Stations: Usually located in a residential setting and deliver the lowest charging rate: 3 to 5 miles per hour. For an overnight at home, Level I would work; however, it does not serve a high-traffic commercial or public location very well.
- Level II Charging Stations: These come with a faster charge rate, enabling around 12 to 40 miles of range gained with each hour of utilization. Functioning at 208/240V and 30 amps, these would be most suitable for businesses with aspirations of providing convenient, off-workplace charging opportunities to their employees, customers, or visitors.
- Level III Charging Stations (DC Fast Chargers): Also known as DC Fast Chargers, have an impressive ability to deliver up to 400 miles of range per hour. They are the most expensive to install and not all vehicle models are compatible with them. The ideal use for these chargers is in busy commercial environments, such as dealerships or travel centers, where high-speed charging is most in demand.
3. Convenience and Installation
For businesses, it is very important to be convenient and easy to use. Home chargers provide the best convenience because workers or residents can charge their devices overnight without going anywhere. However, setting up home chargers might need a lot of money at first, which includes paying for professional installation and possibly upgrading electrical systems for Level II chargers.
Commercial and public charging stations offer businesses with many vehicles the ability to charge for them. In addition, they can provide charging for the public. Many businesses are using fast-charging systems to cut down wait times for EV drivers. These stations help businesses in busy areas, where EV owners can stop to charge while going to work or doing errands.
4. Availability and Access
Home charging is the easiest option for homeowners who have available parking spaces. However, it may not work effectively for businesses in multi-unit buildings, rental homes, or commercial areas that do not have specific parking.
Access, approvals, and installation with landlords, property managers, or local officials can present problems for businesses. Home charging is worth considering before purchasing if it is possible to charge at home.
For businesses thinking about commercial or public charging stations, the increasing number of public EV chargers and government support make it easier to find a solution. Sometimes, businesses can work with local authorities or charging networks to improve their infrastructure options.
EV Charging Infrastructure Key Considerations
1. Strategic Implementation Considerations
Strategic deployment considerations while designing an EV Charging infrastructure require thorough needs assessments by firms when designing infrastructure for charging electric vehicles. EV usage by employees and customers, charging station space availability, electrical grid capacity and possible upgrades, long-term maintenance and operational costs, and income potential from public charging should all be assessed as a part of this.
2. Environmental and Economic Considerations
Installing EV charging stations is more than just short-term cost savings; it’s a long-term investment in sustainability. Companies that build charging infrastructure demonstrate active involvement in business social responsibility and appeal to environmentalist customers and employees. This also goes beyond reducing carbon emissions; it’s indicative of a future-thinking business.
3. Incentives and Rebates
Businesses investing in EV charging infrastructure may be eligible for various incentives and tax credits. For example, the federal government offers tax credits that cover up to 30% of the cost of EV charging equipment and installation at primary residences. States may also offer funding for the development of public charging stations, with some programs covering up to 80% of project costs through initiatives like the NEVI Formula Program.
Businesses should explore state and local incentives to ensure they fully utilize financial support when implementing charging infrastructure.
Partner with MOREDAY for Your EV Charging Solution
The right EV charging station for your business requires a complete understanding of your business needs, your employees’ demands, and your long-term goals. For companies looking for strong, high-quality charging solutions, MOREDAY is the trusted partner you can count on. The company specializes in state-of-the-art solar protective products and equips businesses with sustainable, efficient energy solutions.
Thus, as MOREDAY boasts of superior smart energy technologies, the company will easily include charging stations for electric vehicles to keep driving its sustainability initiatives for employees and customers alike.
Discover today what innovative products and services MOREDAY has to help you toward a greener, more sustainable future.
Related reading: Are EV Charging Stations Profitable?
