What if every parking space in your lot doubled as an EV charging opportunity?
Picture EV drivers pulling in, plugging in, and going about their day, while you earn revenue from the parking and charging services provided.
Savvy parking facility operators across North America recognize the shift toward electric mobility, and they’re seizing the opportunity. By leveraging existing spaces, they’re not only accommodating EVs but also ensuring their own relevance in a changing world of transportation.
Of course, with this new opportunity comes the need for careful planning and investment. Parking lot operators must embrace innovation, invest in infrastructure upgrades, and align their business models with the demands of a greener future.
In this article, we’ll outline the essential considerations for successful EV charger integration in an existing parking garage or parking lot.
Local Regulations For EV Charging Stations in Parking Garages
Navigating the legal landscape is the first important step for operators considering EV charging stations in parking garages. Fire codes, especially for indoor parking spaces, have strict requirements to ensure safety and compliance. Parking facility operators in Canada should refer to the NFC 2020 to be certain that they’re correctly following national laws. In the United States, fire protection standards are often set at the state level, so parking lot operators will need to reference the appropriate codes for their location. Operators must familiarize themselves with an array of local, provincial/state, and federal regulations that can influence the installation and operation of EV charging stations. This may include rules or permits stemming from utility providers, environmental organizations, the government, and more. A complete understanding of local regulations is essential for avoiding penalties and ensuring that the charging station installation process goes smoothly. Operators should also stay updated on changing codes and proactively address any upgrades needed to remain in compliance.Site Selection for Parking Lot EV Chargers
The strategic placement of EV charging stations within a parking facility can significantly impact their utilization. Identify areas that are conveniently located, visible to EV drivers, and see enough traffic to maximize usage. Additionally, operators should consider the flow of traffic through their lot or garage, ensuring that charging stations are placed so that they won’t disrupt the efficient movement of vehicles or pedestrians.
Safety is another major concern. Opt for spaces that offer customers enough space to safely move around their car while plugging in, and provide clear pathways to and from the parking lot EV charging stations. Maintenance and repairs to your charging stations will also be easier with some room to manoeuvre, so keep this in mind when choosing the installation area. Picking the right site for parking lot EV chargers will not only improve the user experience but also ensure that the stations blend nicely into the existing parking environment
Lastly, operators should consider future expansion plans and allocate space accordingly to accommodate the growing demand for EV parking infrastructure. Planning ahead allows for scalability and flexibility as the electric mobility landscape evolves.
Costs Of Installing EV Charging Stations in Parking Garages
The financial side of EV charger installation involves a careful analysis of both initial and ongoing costs.
Upfront expenses include the cost of the charging units themselves, as well as any necessary infrastructure upgrades, such as electrical systems at your location. The cost of your EV charging pedestals, essential for housing and protecting your charger, will also need to be considered. Lastly, the cost of installation encompasses labour, materials, and any additional preliminary work required to set up the charging infrastructure.
Maintenance and electricity costs will recur over time, varying based on usage and local energy rates. Regular maintenance tasks may include cleaning, inspection, and repair of charging equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety. Electricity costs will depend on the number of charging sessions and the rate charged by your utility provider.
Often, these costs can be mitigated through government incentives and subsidies aimed at promoting EV adoption and electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), making the investment more manageable for operators. Check for grants and tax incentives in your local area to minimize your financial burden.
Revenue Opportunities From EV Parking
EV charging stations present a unique opportunity for revenue generation within parking facilities. Parking lot operators can implement charging fees, creating a new income stream that can grow as more EVs continue to hit the streets. Some operators may also consider offering value-added services such as valet charging, premium parking spaces with charger access, or partnerships with local businesses to offer discounts or incentives for EV drivers who use their facilities.
Moreover, positioning a parking facility as a green choice enhances its brand image, attracting environmentally conscious drivers. This serves as a powerful marketing tool and aligns the business with the broader societal shift towards sustainability.
EV Charger Selection & Setup
Selecting the appropriate type of charger is crucial for meeting the needs of EV drivers.
Level 1 chargers are the most basic, while Level 2 chargers offer faster charging times, and DC fast chargers provide the quickest charging solution. While Level 1 chargers offer the lowest price point, they’re also the least efficient in terms of charging time, making them a poor option for parking lot or parking garage use. Level 2 chargers are considered the optimal choice for these locations, as they’re affordable and they offer about 35 km. of range per hour of charging. Level 3 chargers, otherwise known as DC fast chargers, are the most efficient charging option. However, they’re also quite costly, making them a steep investment for parking garages.
Operators should also take into account the types of connectors needed to accommodate various EV models. Conduct thorough research to identify the proper connector types required to best meet the needs of customers in your local area.
Lastly, the setup should be scalable to allow for future expansion as the demand for EV charging increases. Selecting hardware that easily allows for upgrades, such as a dual-cable EV charging pedestal, will ensure flexibility as your charging business grows.
Installing EV charging stations is a proactive step for parking lot operators, signalling a commitment to environmental sustainability and a readiness for business growth.
As the EV market grows, early adopters of charging infrastructure will be well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Parking lot operators are encouraged to consider the long-term benefits and strategic importance of EV charging stations, securing their relevance and profitability in a rapidly changing industry. By embracing EV parking, facilities can diversify their revenue streams, increase customer satisfaction, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban mobility.
Are you ready to make your parking garage a hub for sustainable transportation? Contact our team to learn how we can help you integrate EV charging solutions into your parking facility.