According to Power Technology, sales of electric vehicles (EVs) increased by 160% in three major car markets – China, the United States, and Europe. With 2.6 million EVs sold in the first half of 2021, the demand for public charging stations is also increasing.

A J.D. Power survey notes that an estimated 88% of EV charging occurs at home. Installing on-site EV charging stations is straightforward for homeowners. Homeowners using a level 1 trickle charger can plug their chargers into an existing electrical outlet, and for a minimal fee they can upgrade to a level 2 charger. It is a good thing to note that most homeowners upgrading to a level 2 charger will need an electrician to install the charger.

It’s a little different for renters. America’s Rental Housing 2020 states one-third of Americans are currently renting their home or living in multi-unit dwellings (MUDs). Many of these apartment and condominium complexes are not offering EV charging. It’s a barrier preventing widescale EV adoption across the county. Right-to-charge laws are addressing the inequity between single and multi-family properties. The law requires a section of new MUD parking lots to include EV charging stations. However, it is still challenging for existing MUDs to install EV charging stations without guidance.

There are multiple reasons to encourage MUD EV adoption. Not only are new and existing residents beginning to expect the amenity, but it can also increase brand and property values. Before choosing on-site EV charging stations, here are five things MUD owners and managers want to consider.

1. Community or Designated Parking Spots

EV chargers are typically installed closest to the electrical panel. It gives MUDs two installation options.

1. Designated parking spots. Properties, where residents have assigned parking spots, ensuring everyone has a place to pull into. However, it can make it difficult to install charging stations. When residents’ EVs are spread throughout the parking lot, installing the charging infrastructure is challenging.
2. Community charging spots. To limit the installation expense, some complexes select spots dedicated to EV charging stations. This configuration lets MUDs put charging stations close to the electrical panel and keep construction costs down.

You may also want to consider wall-mounted EV chargers. It can save on installation costs.

2. Free or Paid Charging

MUD owners and managers need to decide if they are offering free or paid EV charging. Kilowatt-hour costs are higher during the day than at night. On-site smart EV charging stations can calculate electricity usage costs. MUDs can assess charging fees based on energy costs and the smart charging stations can adjust the fees accordingly.

Utilities may also offer incentives to multi-unit dwellings that offer smart charging solutions. The networked connected chargers collect and analyze usage data helping to prevent grid overloads.

3. Type of Infrastructure

Older multi-unit dwellings are typically built without considering the addition of on-site EV charging stations. It often means a limited electrical supply when the goal is to install an EV charger in every or most parking spots. An effective solution is load balancing. It allows the complex to connect multiple EV chargers to a single circuit. It can also save time and money during the installation process. Connecting multiple charging stations to one circuit eliminates the need for extensive wiring.

Please Note: While load balancing is a great option if facilities do not have the available power to operate a given number of changers, load balancing splits the power between multiple chargers which slows the changing time substantially. To read more click here.

4. Type of EV Charger

MUD owners and managers can choose to install Leve 1, 2, or 3 chargers. Level 2 chargers are the most common due to their faster charging times and lower price point.

5. Incentives, Rebates, and Credits

Utility, state, and federal incentives can reduce the costs associated with installing one-site EV charging stations. The federal government may cover 30% of the costs. In addition, most states offer incentives that range from covering 50 to 100 percent of the installation costs. It can even cover costs associated with purchasing EV chargers.

Don’t forget about utility companies, some are offering the most lucrative incentives. To make EV charging infrastructure more affordable for MUDs, many utilities are offering rebate programs.

Incentives, rebates, and credits vary by zip code. It is always a good idea to partner with someone familiar with the various programs.

Learn More About MUD EV Adoption

Along with doing your due diligence, you want a savvy partner before you start installing on-site EV charging stations. Contact Apogee Charging Solutions today to learn how we can help from picking the right type of chargers to finding incentives that dramatically reduce purchasing and installation costs. Call 484-816-2076, email [email protected], or you can schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.