Installing EV chargers can sound simple, but the complicated and costly aspect of installing these chargers is not the chargers themselves; it’s the infrastructure required to power them.
There are many aspects to EV infrastructure, from new transformers, panels, conduit, trenching, and more. The factors that determine the complexity of installing infrastructure are the availability of power on the property, where the chargers are located, and the state and local regulations.
1. Available Power:
One of the primary hurdles in installing EV infrastructure is ensuring that the site has adequate power capacity to support the charging stations. EV chargers, particularly those with higher power outputs, can place significant demands on the electrical system. Assessing the available power at a site involves an analysis of the existing electrical system, including the service entrance, transformers, and distribution panels. Insufficient power capacity can lead to overloaded circuits, voltage drops, and potential safety hazards. Addressing these issues may require extensive upgrades, such as increasing the panel size, installing new transformers, or even requesting a dedicated circuit from the utility provider.
2. Charger Location:
Determining the optimal location for EV charging stations is a balancing act between convenience and practicality. On one hand, chargers should be positioned in easily accessible and visible locations to encourage widespread adoption and usage. However, factors such as proximity to electrical infrastructure, compliance with ADA guidelines, and potential obstructions or hazards must be considered. Placing chargers far from available power may require extensive trenching and conduit runs.
3. Compliance:
The actual installation of a charging system can, on average, take 2-7 days on site. The average time from a contract to the installation of the system is about 3-6 months. The reason for this timeline can largely be attributed to the permitting process. There are many different types of permits that could potentially be required, such as electrical, building, zoning, trenching, signage, accessibility, or environmental permits. Each state and municipality will have their own permitting requirements, and a failure to comply could result in fines or project delays.
The one-time infrastructure may be reduced in its complexity and cost for new developments. The reason is that the original building designs can incorporate the need for EV chargers, eliminating the need for significant civil work or additional electrical equipment.
While the prospect of installing an EV charger is exciting, the infrastructure requirements can quickly become complicated and costly. EV+ handles all the project management and is the lowest infrastructure cost option in the market. Contact us today to see if your property qualifies for our zero-cost model.
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