INTRODUCTION
A report by Bloomberg revealed that electric cars will account for three percent of global car sales in 2020. That figure will grow to 58 percent by 2040.
The U.S. Dept. of Energy currently shows 31,710 stations with 105,500 charging outlets in the United States. The Bloomberg report noted that we will need millions of more charging points in the years to come.
For convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores and even corporate offices wondering about the commercial EV charging station installation process, here is some advice:
Types: Most public charging stations are Level 2, which typically provide 6 kW of power for 12 to 40 miles of range per hour of charging. Level 3 stations typically provide 50 kW of power for 35 to 100 miles of range per hour of charging.- Cost: A Level 2 station can cost up to $6,500, plus up to $12,000 for installation. Meanwhile, a Level 3 station can cost up to $40,000, plus up to $50,000 for installation.
- Grants and Loans: Check to see if you can apply for a grant, such as one from the State Energy Program, or a loan, such as one from the Title XVII program.
- Location: While a high visibility location may provide branding benefits, the charging station would be better placed near an electrical room to reduce the need for trenching and wiring.
- Return on investment: Look for tax credits, such as the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. For convenience stores, gas stations and grocery stores, the EV charging stations can be used to help increase sales inside, as consumers can use the charging time to shop. Plus, you can sell ads on the EV charging station. For corporate offices, consider the EV charging stations as an employee benefit you can offer.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
FoxArneson, which has experience in installing electric car charging stations, is a commercial design/build construction company that specializes in buildouts and additions to the retail, c-store and gas stations, grocery stores and corporate industries.