Smart power management systems monitor charger usage, reallocating energy across active chargers to prevent system overload. This balancing capability allows businesses to install more chargers safely, while avoiding costly infrastructure upgrades by maximizing the existing power capacity. Advanced, software-driven power management systems can also optimize charging times and adjust based on peak demand, further improving efficiency. By implementing these systems, commercial sites can meet increased charging needs while reducing the need for significant electrical upgrades.
The Complete Guide
Commercial EV Charging
Commercial EV charging demands reliable infrastructure. This guide provides insights to help property managers, business owners, and commercial developers select the best EV charging solutions. With the right setup, commercial sites can attract EV-driving customers and maximize long-term returns.
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Jump to a section:
What is commercial EV charging?
Benefits of commercial EV charging solutions
The best commercial EV chargers: 5 types to know
Smart features for commercial EV charging stations
Choosing the right EV charging solution for commercial use
Installation and infrastructure requirements for commercial EV chargers
Incentives and rebates for commercial EV charging
Comparing commercial EV charging solutions
FractalEV commercial EV chargers
What is commercial EV charging?
Commercial EV charging refers to charging infrastructure designed for business environments or all non-residential charging setups – it is distinguished by its scale and usage patterns. Unlike home chargers serving individual vehicles, commercial charging solutions cater to multiple users and often involve multiple chargers deployed on-site. These installations are common in retail, office, and public locations, supporting varied user needs and accommodating larger EV traffic. Multifamily properties, though conceptually serving residences, are considered commercial due to their shared infrastructure. Key considerations include power management, access controls, and energy optimization, making commercial EV charging essential for high-traffic, business-oriented environments.
Benefits of commercial EV charging solutions
Revenue generation
Commercial EV charging stations offer businesses multiple paths to ROI. For those looking to monetize chargers directly, flexible pricing models make it easy to earn revenue. Companies can create additional income streams from each EV charging session by charging per session, hour, or kilowatt-hour. In high-traffic areas, DC fast chargers can generate up to $2,640 monthly, with premium locations yielding as much as $10,560 monthly, making them a lucrative investment for commercial sites. However, this revenue still pales in comparison to that of a gas pump at a dedicated fueling site – and level 2 chargers return significantly less. As such, chargers must be deployed thoughtfully in order to capitalize on their return on investment.
Attracting customers, tenants, and talent
Installing EV chargers attracts EV-driving customers and tenants, increasing foot traffic and dwell time. Businesses offering EV charging options report up to a 1.4% boost in spending from customers who spend more time on-site while charging. Charging stations also enhance brand visibility by listing the location on popular charging apps and navigation platforms, which directs more eco-conscious drivers to businesses offering this service.
Offering EV charging attracts not only customers and tenants but eco-conscious employees as well. It shows commitment to environmental goals while also reducing employees’ transportation costs.
Sustainability and ESG goals
For businesses committed to sustainability, EV chargers reduce Scope 1 and Scope 3 emissions by encouraging cleaner commuting options for employees and customers. Those powered by renewable energy can also reduce Scope 2 emissions, cutting overall environmental impact. Adopting EV chargers aligns with corporate environmental, social, and governance goals, appealing to stakeholders who value sustainability and enhancing the business’s green reputation.
Compliance and regulations
Many regulations offer tax credits and rebates to support EV infrastructure, such as the US Inflation Reduction Act, which provides a 30% tax credit on EV charging equipment costs. By staying ahead of local and federal emissions mandates, businesses can leverage these financial incentives to offset installation expenses, supporting the transition to a greener transportation model.
Smart features for commercial EV charging stations
Smart charging features for commercial EV sites help streamline operations by maximizing energy efficiency, tracking usage, and enabling remote management. These tools allow site owners to reduce peak energy costs, improve charger availability, and offer real-time insights into usage patterns across multiple locations.
Want to learn more about the importance of choosing the right software?
Read our Complete Guide to EV Charging Software.
Power management
Remote monitoring and diagnostics
With remote monitoring, commercial site managers can oversee charger performance from anywhere, enabling real-time diagnostics and proactive maintenance. This feature detects potential issues early, reducing downtime and maintenance costs by allowing troubleshooting before disruptions impact customer experience. By streamlining upkeep across multiple locations, businesses improve charger reliability and operational efficiency.
Usage tracking and billing integration
Usage tracking and billing integration provide precise data on each charging session, enabling accurate billing by customer, department, or unit. Businesses can generate reports on energy usage patterns, helping them allocate costs fairly and optimize pricing strategies. This feature also simplifies cost recovery, making it easier for commercial properties to justify the initial investment and qualify for more rebates.
Access control
Access control allows businesses to customize charger accessibility based on users or groups — employees, tenants, or public visitors. By using mobile apps, QR codes, RFID cards, or PIN codes, businesses can ensure secure access to EV chargers. This flexibility supports diverse user needs, improves security, and enhances convenience, particularly in multi-use properties or high-traffic commercial environments.
Choosing the right EV charging solution for commercial use
Budget considerations
Selecting the right commercial EV charging solution starts with balancing upfront costs against long-term operational expenses. Level 2 chargers typically have a lower initial cost, ranging from $500 to $2,500 per unit, while DC fast chargers cost between $10,000 and $50,000. Installation costs vary depending on electrical upgrades and site preparation, impacting total investment.
Operational expenses, such as electricity usage and maintenance, also play a key role. Level 2 chargers result in lower ongoing costs and can typically be installed without massive infrastructure changes. Conversely, DC fast chargers typically require not only more infrastructure, but more maintenance as well. Whether the higher revenues will offset these costs is highly site dependent. Commercial sites should calculate potential revenue alongside operating expenses to identify the best return on investment.
Scalability
As EV adoption accelerates, the ability to scale charging infrastructure becomes essential for commercial properties. Selecting scalable solutions, such as OCPP-compliant chargers, allows businesses to add more chargers over time without being locked into proprietary systems. Choosing networked chargers that can easily integrate with new software or hardware ensures future-proofing.
Planning for scalability also involves assessing energy needs and ensuring sufficient electrical capacity. Businesses can handle increased usage by choosing scalable power management solutions without overloading existing infrastructure, enabling a smooth, cost-effective expansion as demand grows.
Site location considerations
The location of charging stations affects both usage and customer satisfaction. Fueling areas like gas stations and rest stops benefit from DC fast chargers, as these allow drivers to charge quickly during short visits. In contrast, destination charging (e.g., hotels, offices, shopping centers, city centers) often suits Level 2 chargers, where customers spend longer periods parked.
Positioning chargers in accessible, visible areas maximizes convenience and increases utilization. Businesses should evaluate foot traffic, customer dwell time, and existing parking infrastructure when deciding on optimal placement, ensuring chargers align with customer expectations and business objectives.
Usage patterns and needs
Understanding the usage patterns and needs of EV drivers is crucial for selecting the right number and type of chargers. For high turnover environments, DC fast chargers can maximize revenue by providing quick charging options. In settings where vehicles remain parked for hours, Level 2 chargers offer a cost-effective solution that aligns with customer needs.
Analyzing usage data, such as frequency of visits and average parking duration, helps businesses avoid over- or under-provisioning chargers. For properties that serve a diverse clientele, a mix of Level 2 and Level 3 chargers may be optimal to cater to different charging needs and maximize site profitability.
Installation and infrastructure requirements for commercial EV chargers
Site assessment
Conducting a site assessment is crucial to determine if your facility can support the additional electrical load required by EV chargers. This includes performing an electrical load analysis to assess the capacity of the existing infrastructure, identifying the need for any upgrades, and ensuring compliance with local codes and safety standards. Permitting is also a key step, as many municipalities require specific approvals before installation. Partnering with a licensed electrician familiar with commercial EV infrastructure can streamline the permitting and compliance process.
Space and layout planning
Efficient space planning ensures that chargers are accessible and optimally positioned within the parking layout. Position chargers near high-traffic areas while ensuring minimal disruption to parking flow. Visibility and ease of access increase user convenience and encourage utilization, so consider placing chargers close to entry points or frequently used zones. Planning the layout also involves accounting for future expansion, allowing for additional chargers without significant site alterations.
Phased implementation
For businesses new to EV charging, a phased implementation strategy provides flexibility to grow with demand. Starting with a smaller number of chargers allows businesses to gauge usage patterns, understand customer needs, and assess operational costs before committing to a larger investment. As EV adoption increases, additional chargers can be added to meet rising demand, making phased implementation a cost-effective approach that avoids over-investment. It is often cost effective to lay enough infrastructure initially (such as conduit) to allow for additional expansion in the future.
Cable management
Organized cable management is essential for safety, accessibility, and compliance with installation standards. Retractable cables or mounting systems prevent tripping hazards and protect cables from wear, enhancing both user safety and charger longevity. In high-traffic commercial settings, cable management also contributes to a professional appearance, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to safety and quality. Investing in proper cable management solutions minimizes maintenance and ensures compliance with local safety regulations.
Incentives and rebates for commercial EV charging
Federal and state incentives
Federal and state programs offer tax credits and rebates to support commercial EV charger installations. The US federal government’s Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit provides up to 30% off installation costs, capped at $100,000 per property.
Many states, including California and New York, have additional rebates or grants for commercial properties, making it financially easier for businesses to invest in EV charging. Taking advantage of these incentives can significantly reduce the upfront costs associated with EV infrastructure.
Utility programs
Utility companies often offer demand response programs and discounted rates for commercial EV charging, helping businesses manage energy costs. For instance, utilities like Southern California Edison provide lower rates for off-peak charging and rebates to reduce setup costs. Partnering with utilities also enables participation in demand response, where businesses earn savings by adjusting charging during peak times, reducing operational costs. These partnerships make it financially feasible to maintain and expand EV charging infrastructure.
Comparing commercial EV charging solutions
ChargeLab provides advanced EV charging software solutions designed to streamline the management of commercial charging networks. Their platform enables real-time monitoring, load balancing, and integration with OCPP hardware, ensuring flexibility and scalability. ChargeLab’s tools include usage analytics and automated billing, helping businesses optimize energy use and improve customer experiences. With its seamless software capabilities, ChargeLab empowers commercial sites to efficiently manage charging infrastructure and adapt to growing EV demands.
EVoke Systems offers comprehensive EV charging solutions tailored for various industries, including multifamily residences, workplaces, and retail sectors. Their cloud-based platform provides real-time monitoring, advanced load management, and flexible pricing options, enabling businesses to efficiently manage charging operations and reduce energy costs. With support for a wide range of hardware and seamless integration capabilities, EVoke ensures scalability and future-proofing of charging infrastructure.
Noodoe offers innovative EV charging solutions tailored for commercial applications, combining cutting-edge hardware with intelligent software. Their platform provides automated operation, usage tracking, and energy management to simplify charging station management for businesses. Noodoe’s solutions are OCPP-compliant, enabling seamless integration and future scalability. With features like smart scheduling and remote monitoring, Noodoe helps commercial sites optimize charging efficiency, enhance user experiences, and reduce operational overhead, making it an ideal partner for EV charging infrastructure.
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FractalEV for Commercial Projects
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FractalEV designs OCPP-compliant Level 2 chargers specifically for commercial applications. Our chargers are robust, scalable, and straightforward to install, making them ideal for businesses that support high traffic and diverse user needs. Each charger is equipped with advanced features like power management to optimize energy use, along with cloud-based monitoring and remote diagnostics.
From retail locations and office parks to public spaces, our solutions help enhance customer experience and support sustainability goals. Ready to elevate your property with reliable commercial EV charging?
