There is a clear consensus that electric vehicle (EV) charging capacity in commercial buildings will soon become non-negotiable. Certain regions have already mandated bylaws on new builds to ensure this. For example, in 2022, The City of North Vancouver required that to obtain a building permit, 45% of parking spaces on site must have Level 2 EV charging infrastructure available for use (City of North Vancouver).
Increasing EV demand supports this notion that providing EV charging to customers or employees is not just an asset, but will soon become essential. Here is why now is the perfect time to get ahead of the curve and install EV chargers today to give your business a competitive edge.
Attractiveness to Employees
In the US, 1.4 million electric cars were bought in the year 2023, a 40% increase from 2022 (International Energy Agency). The exponential growth in EV popularity underscores the high demand, and with it, an influx of business opportunities for nearly any company.
The ease of plugging in an electric vehicle to charge where you would typically park offers an unparalleled convenience for car users. By implementing EV charging options in the workplace, businesses can better attract and retain employees. As competition in the job market increases along with EV ownership, adding this perk for current and prospective staff will make them more likely to work for your company long-term. The number of people with EVs is only going up–accommodate them now to enhance your business environment’s attractiveness.
Low Costs
Electrifying your company’s fleets can save you money on fuel and maintenance costs and open up the opportunity for government subsidies. But for businesses that do not provide employees with work vehicles, the EV charging landscape is rich with enough of its own affordability solutions to still warrant installing chargers for employee vehicles.
Innovations in EV Energy Management Systems (EVEMS) have made it more affordable than ever for businesses to adapt to employees needs and install these useful chargers. We at Variablegrid stand out with our adaptive EVEMS that allows businesses to avoid excessive spending on electrical upgrades by optimizing the available electrical capacity in their building.
Through dynamically modulating the EV charging among multiple vehicles, we utilize every kilowatt efficiently and reduce strain on the grid. This approach eliminates the need for overbuilt infrastructure, saving businesses tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Additionally, various utilities have introduced Demand Response and Time-of-Use Pricing programs that provide savings to businesses capable of shifting their electricity usage away from peak periods. Our EVEMS can automatically adjust power usage levels, making it easier to take advantage of these savings. By intelligently “shaving the peak” by reducing EV charging during peak times, our systems can be seamlessly integrated with these lower-cost programs. Learn more about how our technology can implement Time-of-Use Pricing and Demand Response programs in these blogs.
Since workplace EV charging capability is becoming mandated, Variablegrid’s technology, along with other incentives for affordable implementation of chargers, can help business owners avoid future higher costs associated with increased strain on the grid.
Value Signaling
58% of employees would reject a job that does not share their values (Personnel Today). And since climate change is becoming the most widespread, pressing social issue of our time, many people are seeking to work for businesses investing in strategies to actively reduce their carbon footprint.
There is no better way for companies to demonstrate their commitment to a sustainable future than by investing in tangible, long-term solutions that combat the climate crisis. Installing EV chargers is an excellent way to demonstrate this commitment and encourage employees to do the same. Leading by example, you can cultivate a work community that cares about creating a sustainable future, reinforcing the importance of meaningful work within your establishment. Not only will your employees be inspired and find more purpose in their work, but this will show your company is willing to go above the status quo to contribute to the things that matter.
At Variablegrid, we believe in the power of our Adaptive Technology and its ability to provide accessible charging solutions for a cleaner planet. If your company too shares a passion for inclusive sustainability, investing in private charging can help you attract earth-conscious clients, benefitting your business on the consumer end. Demonstrating your support for environmental action can lead to increased consumer loyalty and patronage. 78% of consumers say a sustainable lifestyle is important to them, and statistics show this results in higher spending on products and services from companies committed to sustainability (McKinsey).
Level-up your Business now
Soon, the day will come when all companies offer fully electrified parking stalls to match the demands of an EV-dominated landscape. However, to avoid competing with other companies that have electrified, now is the best time to future-proof your business.
We want every business to be able to add EV charging capabilities, so we have created
intelligent technology that is both affordable and inclusive to make this happen. By implementing EV charging stations in the workplace, you will advance beyond your non-EV competitors as a leader in sustainable change, attracting both customers and employees. Start today by implementing EV private charging solutions and watch your business thrive in the new green economy.
By Danielle Shefley
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