Workplace EV charging implementation, when done correctly, can increase the affordability and convenience employees may need to switch to an electric vehicle. It also demonstrates the organization’s commitment to supporting advanced vehicle technology.

Organizations and employees can find resources here.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Workplace Charging Challenge partnered with various organizations committed to supplying workplace charging for their employees. Some of the best practices and lessons learned from this partnership are included in the following paragraphs.

Planning for Charging Implementation

The first step in successful EV charging implementation is to evaluate employee interest. A survey is an easy way to gauge interest. You can also take advantage of the following resources.

• Electricity Sources and Emissions – Explore how grid mix impacts the emission reduction benefits of EV-commuting employees.

 

• Emission Reduction Benefits of Workplace Charging – Learn how workplace charging compares to other sustainable commuting options (PDF) in reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) from employees’ commutes, also known as Scope 3 emissions.

 

• Charging Station Credit for Green Building Certification – Evaluate how installing workplace charging can support certification by green building certification programs, including Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED), Green Globes, ENERGY STAR® for Buildings and Plants, and Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating Systems (STARS).

 

• FEMP Workplace Charging Program Guide

These and additional local resources can help you successfully implement EV charging at your workplace by guiding you through the best practices.

Charging Implementation – Selecting the Right Charging Equipment

Your EV charging implementation plan includes selecting the right equipment and deciding if the units are solar-powered, connected to the electrical grid, or a combination of both.

• Level 1 chargers have the lowest overall cost, including installation. Also known as slow EV chargers, typically only one vehicle can use the unit during the day. These chargers can take up to 15 hours to fully charge a vehicle.

 

• The most common type of workplace EV chargers are classified as Level 2. Employees may need to take a break from their shift to move their EVs since Level 2 chargers are faster than their Level 1 counterparts.

 

• DC fast chargers are the most expensive to purchase and install. However, the units allow multiple vehicles to charge during the work day. Some models can top off a battery in 30 minutes or less.

 

• For organizations trying to start an at home charging program for their employees, our level 2 home chargers offer commercial charging speeds at half the cost.

Evaluating your employees’ charging needs before implementation helps ensure you have the right workplace charging solution.

Managing Your EV Charging Implementation

Organizations offering workplace charging need to set specific guidelines to ensure the program’s safety and success. It means setting guidelines for the administration, registration, liability, sharing, and pricing.

Administration

Successful charger implementation starts with designating a specific individual or group to oversee the operation and maintenance of the units.

Administration policies can also include deciding who has access to the EV chargers. Are the units only for employees or also open to the public?

Apogee Charging Solutions also offers management services for EV charging networks. Don’t have the staff to manage and admin your chargers, we have you covered.

Registration and Liability

Most organizations require employees to register their EVs before they can access the charging stations. It allows administrators to know the number of vehicles using the chargers.

Some registration forms also include waivers that protect the organization from any potential damage an EV may experience during the charging process. For example, trying to force a connector into an EV not designed for the specific unit. Not all EVs are compatible with all types of chargers.

Charger Sharing

It’s not uncommon for organizations to have more EVs than available chargers. Having policies in place for sharing can prevent any potential issues. Some examples include,

• Assigning charging stations to employees is similar to allotting parking spots. Everyone knows where to park, reducing confusion and frustration. Organizations with more EV drivers than chargers can assign two employees to the same spot. The employees can work out when they charge their vehicles.

 

• Use a reservation system. Employees can reserve their charging spot in advance. It helps ensure everyone has a chance to charge their EVs at work.

 

• Setting a time limit is an effective way to keep the chargers open for use. There are also a few options on how organizations can establish time limits. For example, employees can book a spot for a specific amount of time or smaller businesses can leave it up to employees to follow the charging policies.

Pricing

Offering free EV charging to employees as an amenity is a common workplace practice. However, charging a fee for station use can help offset charging implementation costs.

Employers can use a structured payment system for employees. Some offer employees discounted pricing while charging the public full price.

Before organizations implement a charging payment system for employees it’s a good idea to play out the different scenarios. What works for one organization may not be the best practice for your organization.

Engage Employees After Charger Implementation

Once the chargers are installed and ready for use, let your employees know how they can take advantage of the stations. Consider hosting an EV drive and ride or another type of outreach event to get the word out. The goal is to convince employees to consider switching to an electric vehicle.

If you have questions surrounding your EV charger implementation plan, contact us today by calling 484-816-2076, emailing [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.