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The UK is set to prohibit the sale of new vehicles powered solely by fuel in 2030. They are already disappearing from the UK’s roads and being replaced by hybrid and all-electric vehicles. The pace of adoption of these vehicles is, however, dependent upon the expansion of EV-charging infrastructure. Businesses can play a key role in making this happen and it’s very much in their interests to do so.
The business benefits of installing an EV charging station
Installing an EV charging station isn’t just something you do because you believe in sustainability (although that’s an entirely valid reason for installing one). It also has the potential to deliver several valuable business benefits. Here are the main ones.
The future is electric. That much is certain. Getting your EV charging in place now means that you will have done the bulk of the work needed to be ready for the change. This is vastly preferable to leaving everything until the last minute.
Making your business an attractive destination
Regardless of whether your EV charging station is going to be used by staff, customers or both, it will be a welcome addition to your premises.
Demonstrating your sustainability credentials
It’s great to talk about your sustainability credentials on your website and social media. Unfortunately, in the real world, these will probably only be accessed by a fairly small percentage of people. An EV charging station, by contrast, is highly visible. It can therefore convince a lot more people.
Possible financial benefits
It’s probably fair to say that most, if not all, businesses that provide parking will need to provide EV charging stations eventually. Doing it now may allow even small businesses to qualify for government assistance such as the Workplace Charging Scheme. Even if it doesn’t, it will enable you to charge your vehicles at your own charging stations. This is likely to be much more economical than relying on public chargers.
Potential to share resources
If you have an EV charging station at your business, you may be able to barter its use against the goods and services you need. Probably the most obvious example of this would be agreeing with another business that you could use each other’s charging facilities.
Points to consider before installing an EV charging station
Before you go ahead and install an EV charging station, here are four key points you should consider getting the most out of it.
Where can you put it?
First, look for all the potential spaces you could install an EV charging station. Then evaluate them in terms of safety, accessibility and convenience. To do this, you will need to know the details of your electrical infrastructure.
What are your charging needs?
Essentially you need to know (roughly) how many people are likely to want to use your EV charging station and what speed and power capacity they need. If in doubt, lean towards providing as much speed and power as you can. Everyone loves fast charging.
Who will install it for you?
You will need a reputable installer to install the EV charging station for you. Make sure you do your research thoroughly before you make any commitments. Be aware that reputable installers are often in high demand. It, therefore, makes sense to start your search as early as you can.
What specific charger do you need?
EV charging is presently in much the same place as Android phone charging before it was (largely) standardised. You need to make sure that your EV charging station has the right connectors for your needs. You also need to ensure that it meets safety standards and certifications. Your installer may be able to guide you here.
