Summary
- Majority of EV charging is done at homes, shopping sites, and Level 2 charging stations, but workplace charging is also crucial
- Workplace EV charging stations in the US have experienced reliability issues, creating stress for employees
- The number of drivers looking to charge at work has grown significantly, highlighting the need for more installations to meet demand
- Employers face challenges with limited real estate and budget in installing new charging units to accommodate EV drivers
- Employers should conduct surveys to understand employee needs, optimize on-site and home charging, and encourage home charging to support the growth of EV adoption.
Article
The need for reliable workplace EV charging stations is crucial as more employees are driving electric vehicles (EVs). Workplace charging is a significant source of charging for many employees, and if these stations are inefficient or unreliable, it can cause stress and uncertainty for EV drivers. Kate L. Harrison, co-founder of MoveEV, emphasizes the importance of ensuring workplace chargers are functioning well to provide employees with easy and routine charging access. The state of workplace chargers in the US is analyzed, highlighting the challenges employers face in keeping up with the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure.
In 2023, there was a 57% growth in the number of drivers looking to charge at work, but only a 22% growth in new installations, indicating a gap between demand and supply. Employers are struggling to ration parking spaces with EV chargers and find the budget to install new charging units to meet the needs of both fleet drivers and commuting employees. Workplace surveys can help identify the specific needs of employees and understand their current charging options to prioritize on-site chargers for those who lack home charging access. By optimizing on-site and home charging, employers can support current EV drivers and encourage more employees to switch to electric vehicles.
The growing interest in EV adoption presents both challenges and opportunities for employers. Lack of reliable access to home charging can be a barrier to EV adoption, but by addressing the charging needs of their workforce, companies can accelerate EV adoption, reduce carbon emissions, and foster a culture of sustainability. Employers are encouraged to develop inclusive charging solutions that support current EV drivers and pave the way for a greener future where charging accessibility is not a limiting factor in choosing an electric vehicle. By leveraging off-peak rates and offering reimbursement programs for home charging, employers can reduce the need for extensive on-site infrastructure and support broader sustainability goals.
A balanced and inclusive approach to workplace EV charging is essential in meeting the diverse needs of employees and contributing to sustainability goals. Employers should consider employees’ homes as an extension of the corporate charging infrastructure, offering incentives for home charging to free up workplace chargers for those who need them most. By understanding their workforce’s commuting needs and preferences, employers can develop effective at-work charging policies and procedures that promote workplace equity and support EV adoption. Kate L. Harrison’s expertise in EV transition and sustainability provides valuable insights for companies looking to electrify their fleet and commuter vehicles for a more sustainable future.
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