There are many reasons why you might be looking into an electric vehicle charger for your business’ location. You have many options, too: various types, sizes, and voltage levels offer different charging speeds for assorted electric vehicles.

If you’re considering installing a commercial EV charger, we want you to call your Co-op first so that we can help you properly size your system. Before you call, here are a few questions to consider:

What Is Your Intended End-Use for Your EV Charger?

  • Is your EV charger for residential purposes? (i.e., are you a landlord installing chargers for tenants at your apartment complex?)
  • Is this charger for your employees to use?
  • Do you want to install a fee based or free charger to attract customers to your business?
  • If fee-based, do you want to profit from the charger’s energy sales

Number of Plug-Ins

  • How many EVs would you like to be able to charge at one time?

Pricing

  • Who do you anticipate will pay for the electricity?
    • Will this be a complimentary system (meaning you will pay for others to charge)?
      Or do you prefer a payment portal to accept money for charging?

Voltage Level

  • Level 1 charging: standard 120 V outlet; although this can technically provide power to charge an EV, the charge will be too slow for commercial purposes.
  • Level 2 charging: a 240 V charging station offers the same voltage used by many large appliances and can provide most EVs with a full charge in 4 to 6 hours.
  • DC Fast Charging: a 480 V charging station that requires specialized, high-powered equipment. Installation and service to one of these chargers is a significant investment. Federal grant funding may be available but depends on many factors. Give the Co-op’s Energy Services department a call for a partnership consultation.

Need To Talk to an Energy Advisor About Commercial EV Charging?