If you're considering installing an electric vehicle charging station on your business premises, you need to factor in a couple of things. You first need to determine if there's a market for an electric vehicle charging station in your area. You can do this by talking to local businesses and EV owners and checking online resources to get an idea of the installation process.

After determining that your area has a market for EV charging stations, you need to find an ideal location to install them. Once you find an ideal location to install your electric vehicle charging station, you'll need to acquire all the necessary approvals and permits from your county or city government before any work can commence. Here are a few steps to take if you're considering installing an electric vehicle charging station.

Determine Your Needs

The number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road is growing daily and with that comes the need for more charging stations. One thing you should consider is how you will charge your vehicle. While there is an increasing number of public charging stations available, it's still not always possible or convenient to find one when you need it. Many owners install an electric vehicle charging station at their homes or business. Identifying your needs is an integral first step in this process.

Electric vehicles are cheaper to operate and maintain than gas-powered vehicles, emit less pollution, and are better for the environment. According to Solstice, over 70 million tons of carbon dioxide is counterbalanced by U.S. solar power, similar to planting 1.2 billion trees annually. Before installing an EV charging station on your premises, you need to assess how important sustainability is in your life. Plan ahead and think about how often you intend to use the charging station. This will be heavily dependent on your commute and how often you go for long drives. Addressing these ideas can assist you in narrowing your options and finding the ideal solution.

Consider Installation Costs

Installing an electric vehicle charging station can cost a lot, so be sure to work with your budget before making any decisions. You can sometimes use available government incentives to offset installation costs. You should also factor in additional expenses like liability insurance, charger type, and power requirements. You can research all these options before making any final decisions. After considering all these requirements, you can start shopping around for equipment and hiring contractors. Ensure you get multiple quotes from different contractors before installing your EV charger.

Research Your Options

Many companies offer electric charging stations, so take your time comparing prices and products. It's always helpful to read about the company's values, practices, and pricing before hiring anyone. Reading customer reviews and testimonials can be beneficial in this way. You should also do some research into whether your property is compatible with a charging station. You'll need to install a circuit that can handle an increase in your charger's electrical load. If you're a homeowner, you should note that this feature will raise your electricity bill and eliminate your gasoline expenses.

Most places can accommodate an electric vehicle charger without any issue. However, if your property lacks sufficient electrical capacity, you may need to upgrade before proceeding with the installation. Talk to your local installation company for more information.

Keep Future Expansion in Mind

As the demand for electric vehicles grows, so does the need for convenient and reliable EV charging stations. For homeowners and businesses considering installing an EV charging station, future expansion is one thing to factor into your plans. The number of electric vehicles may increase even more in the coming years, so it's vital to consider how your electric vehicle charging station will adjust for future growth. If you foresee needing extra charging capacity in the future, it's crucial to consider installing an easily expandable system. You may be able to get a deal on installing multiple charging stations at once.

Most EV chargers on the market are expandable, so you can begin with a small system and add more capacity as time goes on. It's an ideal option if you're unsure how many electric vehicles will use your charger in the future or if you want to minimize your initial investment. When purchasing an expandable charger, choose one that provides both DC and AC capabilities. This way, you can add DC faster-charging capabilities in the future if needed. Also, ensure that the charger you purchase is compatible with all types of electric vehicles on the market. Installing an EV charger is an ideal way of preparing for the future of your transportation.

Contact Northwind Solar today if you're looking to install an electric vehicle charging station on your premises. We'll provide you with the right resources to enable your electric vehicle charging station to work with your needs.