How to Install an EV Charging Station at Work
As more drivers in the UK are embracing electric vehicles (EVs), it’s more important than ever that EV owners have a place where they can reliably charge their vehicles. While EV owners can always install an EV charger at home, public charging stations offer conveniences that please EV owners.
With public EV charging, drivers wouldn’t have to worry about running low on charge for a whole day’s worth of driving. Since public charging stations are often strategically located in various commercial areas, such as shopping centres, office parking lots and service stations, they’re easily accessible for EV owners. They also offer different levels of charging speeds to cater to the different needs and time constraints of every EV driver.
Public EV charging stations can also provide businesses, companies, and organisations with several benefits. They can boost customer foot traffic and employee loyalty, as well as give businesses a way to earn extra income and gain a competitive edge in their respective industries. When it comes to workplace EV charger installation, there are some things business owners should keep in mind to ensure a smooth process. If you’re planning to install an EV charging station at work, here are some things you need to consider:
Get Permission from Building Management
If you don’t own the property where your business is located, you’ll need to obtain permission from the building management or property owner first before installing an EV charging station. This step is crucial because building management may have specific guidelines or restrictions regarding modifications to the property, including the installation of electrical infrastructure. By seeking permission upfront, you can ensure that you’re complying with lease agreements, property regulations and safety protocols. It’s also a good way to avoid potential conflicts or legal issues down the line.
Obtain the Necessary Permits
Permits are essential for legal compliance and safety. They ensure that the EV charging station installation meets the required standards and does not pose any risks to users or property. Begin by researching the local regulations and permit requirements for EV charging station installations in your area. Contact the relevant authorities to inquire about specific requirements.
Once you have all the information you need, prepare and submit permit applications according to the guidelines provided by the local authorities. Be ready to address any feedback or requests for modifications from the permitting authorities and work closely with them to ensure that the installation plans meet all regulatory requirements.
Apply for a Workplace Charging Scheme Grant
If you’re a business owner in the UK, you can take advantage of the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) to offset the costs of installing EV charging stations at your workplace. The WCS provides financial support to eligible businesses, making it more affordable to invest in a workplace EV charging infrastructure.
The Workplace Charging Scheme offers vouchers to help cover the upfront costs of installing EV charging infrastructure. Each voucher provides up to £350 per socket, with a maximum of 40 sockets per business location. However, to qualify for this grant, you must meet certain criteria. These include:
Having a dedicated off-road parking
Parking spaces that are suitable for chargepoint installations
Working with a WCS-approved installer
For more information, visit the Workplace Charging Scheme guidance page on the official UK government website.
Hire a Qualified Installer Who Specialises in Installing Commercial Units
When it comes to installing an EV charging station at your workplace, hiring an EV charging point installation service is crucial. A qualified installer will have the expertise and knowledge to ensure that the EV charging station is installed correctly and meets all safety and regulatory requirements. They will also be familiar with the unique considerations involved in commercial installations, such as load management and scalability.
Start by researching reputable EV charging station installers in your area. Look for companies with experience in commercial installations and a track record of successful projects. Request references from past clients or businesses that have worked with the installer. This will give you insights into their reliability, professionalism, and quality of work. Obtain quotes from several installers and compare their pricing, services, and timelines. Consider factors such as warranty coverage, ongoing EV charging point maintenance services, and customer support.
Once you’ve found an installer, schedule consultations to discuss your requirements and objectives for the EV charging station installation. Ask questions about their process, timeline and any additional services they offer, such as site assessment and electrical upgrades to ensure the success of the installation.
Choose the Right Charger
Selecting the right EV charger for your workplace is essential to meet the needs of employees, visitors, and your business operations. It also ensures that the EV charging infrastructure can be easily expanded or upgraded to meet increasing demands. For workplace EV charging, the two main types of chargers are Level 2 (AC) and Level 3 (DC) chargers. The former provides medium-speed charging and is suitable for workplaces where vehicles are parked for several hours like office buildings. The latter, however, offers high-speed charging, making them ideal for locations where vehicles need to charge quickly, such as motorway service stations or fleet depots.
A workplace EV charging station can help your business stay one step ahead of your competition, but you have to make sure that the installation goes smoothly to reap its benefits. By keeping the following tips in mind during the process, you can rest assured that your workplace EV charging infrastructure will serve your business for years to come.