Workplace EV charging: How to gauge if there is a demand?

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The Electric Revolution

It's undeniable that the global shift toward electric mobility is accelerating. EV sales are hitting new records annually, and governments worldwide are encouraging investments in electric vehicle infrastructure. Workplaces are no exception. As more employees embrace electric vehicles, the demand for workplace charging solutions continues to grow. Research shows that 34% of EV drivers already charge at work, and another 27% would do so if the option were available. Clearly, there’s a strong demand for workplace EV charging, but does this apply to your specific organization?

Let’s explore some methods to evaluate the need for EV charging at your workplace and discuss how it fits into the broader transition to electric mobility.

Why Offer EV Charging at Work?

Providing EV charging isn’t just about sustainability—it can also enhance employee satisfaction and attract talent. After the home, the workplace is the most popular spot for EV charging. However, EV chargers are a significant investment, so it’s wise to assess your needs and employee interest before choosing the right solution.

Evaluating Employee Needs and Habits

Understanding your employees’ commuting habits is the first step in determining whether EV chargers are worth the investment. Is your company fully in-person or hybrid? If hybrid, how frequently do employees come to the office? If most employees work remotely, installing EV chargers might not justify the cost.

Consider the size of your parking lot and observe how full it gets on a typical workday. Alternatively, if you require parking permits, this could give you insight into how many employees drive to the office. Additionally, estimate how many employees currently drive electric vehicles by walking through the parking lot or conducting a survey. This information will help you decide if workplace charging aligns with your organization’s needs.

Gauging Employee Sentiment

While understanding current EV ownership is useful, it’s equally important to plan for the future. EV adoption is growing, and many employees who don’t own one now might consider purchasing one in the coming years. Some may face obstacles like lack of home charging options. Offering workplace charging could be the tipping point that encourages these employees to switch to electric vehicles.

Are Employees Interested in EVs?

Simply asking employees if they own an EV or plan to buy one may not tell the whole story. Highlight trends like increasing EV sales, upcoming models, environmental benefits, and government regulations banning combustion engines to better understand their mindset. Educate employees on basic EV charging concepts, such as charging times and usage, to dispel any confusion.

Commute Distance and Charging Needs

Commute distance plays a key role in whether EVs are practical for employees. Even budget-friendly EVs now offer substantial range, but employees with longer commutes may hesitate to switch unless they can easily charge at work. Consider the overall commute patterns of your workforce—if many have long commutes, you might need to install more chargers.

Work Patterns and Charging Time

Employees’ work schedules also influence charging requirements. Those with predictable 8-hour shifts will have ample time to charge, while flexible schedules may require faster DC chargers for quick top-ups. Understanding these dynamics ensures you meet the diverse needs of your workforce.

Employee Preferences and Willingness to Pay

Direct feedback from employees can reveal their attitudes toward EV charging. Research indicates that a company’s environmental efforts are critical for attracting and retaining talent. Asking employees about their willingness to pay for charging can help gauge price sensitivity and identify potential revenue streams.

Alternative Solutions: Home Chargers

In cases where demand exceeds capacity, assisting employees with home charger installations could be a viable alternative. Subsidizing the cost of purchase or installation allows you to support employees’ charging needs without the logistical challenges of office-based solutions. Over time, this approach may prove more cost-effective for your organization.

Maximizing the Benefits of Workplace EV Charging

By embracing EV charging, your workplace can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to sustainability goals. Whether you’re focused on employee satisfaction or exploring revenue-generating opportunities, thorough planning is key. For a deeper dive into business models and charging solutions, check out our comprehensive resources on workplace EV charging.