The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is well underway. With the UK Government’s plan to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, there’s no question that EVs are the future of transport. Businesses have an opportunity to take a proactive role in this pivotal shift by implementing effective EV charging strategies for both employees and visitors.
Not only can this enhance sustainability efforts, but it can also provide a strategic edge in attracting talent, increasing footfall, and supporting green initiatives.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to develop EV charging strategies that work, alongside a breakdown of the benefits businesses stand to gain.
Why Invest in EV Charging?
Before discussing strategies, it’s important to understand the “why” behind the move to provide EV charging facilities. Beyond environmental considerations, there’s a host of direct benefits for businesses that invest in an electric vehicle charging hub.
1. Attract and Retain Top Talent
Offering EV charging is a thoughtful workplace perk that appeals to an increasing number of employees who drive electric vehicles. It demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and employee well-being, traits that are important to modern professionals.
2. Enhance Visitor Experience
By installing an electric vehicle charging hub, businesses can create an inviting environment to attract customers, clients, or partners. Whether you’re running a retail centre, office park, or hospitality venue, convenient charging facilities can make you the preferred destination.
3. Support Your Green Credentials
Establishing EV charging points aligns with corporate social responsibility goals and helps achieve key sustainability targets. Businesses with strong green credentials are more likely to earn customer trust and loyalty.
4. Futureproof Your Property
Investing in EV charging aligns with broader industry trends and ensures your property remains competitive and relevant as EV adoption grows. Incorporating electrical infrastructure now can prevent costly retrofits down the line.
How Can You Develop Effective EV Charging Strategies for Businesses?
Step 1: Assess Your Needs
Your EV charging strategy should start with understanding the needs of your employees and visitors. Speak with your workforce to gauge the demand for EV charging and identify how many EV drivers frequent your location.
For businesses serving customers or guests, analysing footfall data can provide insights into the potential usage of EV charging infrastructure.
Step 2: Choose the Right Electric Vehicle Charging Hub
Not all EV chargers are created equal. When selecting an electric vehicle charging hub, you’ll need to consider a mix of factors, including charge speed, number of ports, and compatibility with different EV models. Installing universal chargers that support all-electric vehicle types ensures you cater to the broadest group of users.
Also, think about scalability, opt for a system that can accommodate increasing demand over time. This way, you can futureproof your investment as EV adoption continues to rise.
Step 3: Evaluate Your Electrical Infrastructure
For businesses, installing EV chargers isn’t as simple as plugging them into an outlet. You’ll need to assess the capacity of your current electrical infrastructure, ensuring it can support the added energy load from the charging stations.
This step often requires collaboration with a qualified electrical engineer or supplier who can evaluate whether upgrades or new equipment, such as transformers, are necessary. Investing in robust electrical infrastructure now will lay the foundation for reliable and safe charging.
Step 4: Location Planning
Where you place your EV chargers is just as important as installing them. Ideally, EV charging points should be accessible, well-lit, and clearly marked to encourage usage. For employees, prioritise proximity to the workplace. For visitors, choose high-traffic areas like the front of retail stores or near venue entrances.
Step 5: Think About Cost and Payment Options
Deciding whether to offer free access, charge a flat fee, or set a pay-as-you-go model depends on your business model and goals. Many businesses in UK provide EV charging as a free perk for employees while implementing a paid system for customer use. Additionally, some government grants and funding schemes can help offset the cost of installing EV chargers, so be sure to explore your options.
Step 6: Incorporate Smart Technology
Modern EV charging solutions come packed with smart technology, allowing you to monitor usage, track energy consumption, and even control charging speeds remotely. Smart chargers also integrate well with renewable energy sources like solar panels, which could further reduce your operational carbon footprint.
The Business Case for EV Charging
When positioned effectively, EV charging isn’t just a practical add-on, it’s a strategic investment. Businesses with EV charging infrastructure often distinguish themselves as forward-thinking organisations, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and employees alike.
Here are a few more considerations to help you build an airtight business case for EV charging:
- Revenue Streams: Depending on your industry, charging visitors for EV use could generate a secondary income stream.
- Energy Savings: Offset operational costs by coupling your EV charging infrastructure with renewable energy sources like solar panels.
- Compliance: Stay ahead of regulations. There are increasing incentives and potential future requirements for businesses to offer EV charging facilities.
Final Thoughts
Providing EV charging solutions isn’t just about convenience, it’s about demonstrating leadership, responsibility, and a willingness to meet the customer and employee needs in a rapidly changing world.
Developing a tailored strategy for installing an electric vehicle charging hub, supported by robust electrical infrastructure, positions your business as a pioneer of sustainability and a champion for innovation.
Make your business part of the EV evolution and start planning your EV charging strategy today!
