Charging Into The Future: The Basics Of EV Charger Installation

Finding the right way to charge your electric vehicle can be confusing. Electric vehicles are becoming more popular every day. This article will guide you through the basics of EV charger installation at multifamily or commercial properties.

Keep reading to learn how!

Types of EV Chargers

Understanding the variety of electric vehicle chargers is key to making an informed choice. Each type offers different features and charging speeds, tailored for specific needs and setups.

Level 1 Chargers

Level 1 chargers?plug into a standard 120-volt AC outlet, offering the most basic type of electric vehicle charging available. They deliver slow charging, taking up to 40-50+ hours to fully charge an electric car.

This method suits users who have access only to residential outlets and do not require rapid charging for their vehicles.

Property managers should note that Level 1 charging provides an accessible option for tenants with electric vehicles, emphasizing lowpower and domestic charging capabilities without the need for extensive infrastructure upgrades.

Moving on, let’s explore Level 2 Chargers and how they can offer a faster solution for commercial properties looking to accommodate electric vehicles more efficiently.

Level 2 Chargers

Moving beyond the basic Level 1 chargers,?Level 2 chargers?stand out as a significantly faster and more powerful option for electric vehicle and plugin hybrid charging. These chargers make use of a 240-volt power supply, which allows them to operate up to 19.2 kW.

This level of power enables these charging stations to add approximately 40 miles of range per hour, making them ideal for commercial properties where efficiency and speed are key.

Level 2 charging equipment presents an efficient charging solution by reducing the time it takes to charge fully electric vehicles (BEVs) to 80 percent in just 4-10 hours, and plugin hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in only 1-2 hours.

Given their higher power output ranging from 3 to 19.2 kW—with most common installations in the US being between 6 to11 kW—these chargers represent a better investment over Level 1 chargers for property managers looking to enhance their electric vehicle infrastructure while offering fast-charging capabilities to their tenants or clients.

Steps for EV Charger Installation

Installing an EV charger requires a series of important steps. First, you need to schedule a preliminary check of your site to ensure it meets the requirements for installation.

Schedule preliminary check

A preliminary check is crucial for setting the stage for a smooth EV charger installation. This step involves a thorough preinstallation inspection to identify any potential issues upfront, thereby ensuring that your commercial property is ready for the next steps.

During this phase, an expert will conduct an electrical system assessment and site assessment for the charger, evaluating both the existing infrastructure and installation readiness.

This evaluation not only helps in preparing your property but also aligns with recommendations from LADWP to guarantee an efficient process. By carrying out this initial check, you’ll have a clear understanding of what modifications or upgrades might be needed before proceeding further.

This proactive approach saves time and resources by addressing any concerns early on, making it easier to move forward with installing your new electric vehicle charging station.

Obtain necessary permits

Most commercial property managers must obtain the necessary permits before installing an EV charger, particularly when adding a new charging circuit. This step ensures that all installations meet local regulations and safety standards.

Start by checking your city or county’s requirements for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Gathering this information early helps prevent delays in your project.

Securing steps to acquire permits for electric vehicle charger installation involves filling out applications and possibly submitting detailed plans of the proposed installation site to local authorities.

Departments such as the Building and Safety or Planning offices often oversee these processes. Ensure you understand what specific documents are needed, as each jurisdiction may have different requirements for regulatory approvals for electric vehicle charger installation.

Fast tracking this process can remove potential barriers to developing EV infrastructure on your property efficiently.

Coordinate with LADBS and LADWP for inspections

Coordinating with LADBS and LADWP for inspections is a crucial step in the installation process for electric vehicle chargers. You must schedule an inspection with LADBS through their website or by calling their phone number, ensuring your project meets all local building and safety department requirements.

This step verifies that your EV charging infrastructure complies with city standards and regulations.

Furthermore, every EV charger installation might present unique challenges or require special considerations. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) evaluates these situations on a case-by-case basis.

By working closely with both agencies, you ensure not only regulatory compliance but also optimize the electrical infrastructure’s setup for future needs. Coordination with these essential city entities guarantees your project proceeds smoothly without any unwanted surprises.

Meter installation or exchange

After ensuring your property passes inspections by LADBS and LADWP, the next crucial step is meter installation or exchange for your EV charger. Installing a new meter or exchanging an existing one is fundamental for pacing with the energy demands of electric vehicle charging stations.

This process involves coordinating with your local utility company to ensure proper energy distribution and billing accuracy.

For commercial properties, understanding the specific requirements for electric vehicle charger permit requirements and meter configuration is essential. Some installations might necessitate upgrading existing meters to accommodate increased electrical loads from EV chargers.

It’s also important to factor in how this upgrade impacts your overall electric vehicle charging infrastructure costs, keeping in mind potential tax credits for EV charger installation that can offset expenses.

Considerations for Multi-Family Buildings

Installing EV charging stations in multi-family buildings presents unique challenges and opportunities for property management. Property owners must plan carefully to ensure there’s enough parking space allocation, keeping in mind both the current and future needs of residents.

They need to design the installation site so that every resident has easy access and can use the chargers without causing congestion or safety hazards. Accessibility requirements also play a crucial role, ensuring all residents, including those with disabilities, can benefit from this amenity.

Maintenance costs, energy consumption, permitting and licensing are essential factors that influence the decision-making process for electric vehicle infrastructure in these settings.

Property managers aim for tenant amenities that boost resident satisfaction while promoting sustainable living. By addressing these considerations effectively, multifamily properties not only accommodate today’s electric vehicle owners but also anticipate an increase in demand as EV popularity continues to soar.

Next up is understanding how installing EV chargers impacts costs and benefits property managers should expect.

Cost and Benefits of EV Charger Installation

Installing EV chargers can significantly increase a property’s value and appeal. Exploring incentives, rebates, and tax credits cuts down on initial costs while paving the way for future savings.

Incentives and tax credits

Incentives and tax credits play a crucial role in reducing the costs associated with EV charger installation. The federal government offers a 30% tax credit on both hardware and installation fees, capped at $1,000 for residential setups and up to $100,000 for eligible commercial projects.

This significant financial support encourages property managers to invest in electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Additionally, various states provide their own rebates or tax incentives, further easing the financial burden of such installations.

Public access charging grants are another valuable resource, covering up to 80% of the cost for?DC fast-charging stations. Utility companies might also offer incentives to promote EV adoption among their customers.

For example, Georgia allows businesses that install publicly accessible charging stations to claim an additional 10% off purchase and installation expenses. These incentives make installing electric vehicle chargers more appealing by lowering initial investment costs and accelerating return on investment.

Rebate programs

Exploring rebate programs for EV charger installation can significantly reduce costs for commercial property managers. These incentives come in various forms, including federal tax credits and specific rebates from utility companies.

1. The?Federal EV Charger Tax Credit?offers a 30% reduction on the cost of both the hardware and the installation of an EV charging station, with a cap at $1,000 for residential applications. This incentive brings down the initial investment considerably.
2. Turnkey rebate programs simplify the process by covering everything from selling to installing EV charging equipment. Property managers can benefit from these comprehensive services to ensure a hassle-free installation.
3. Level 2 EV charging station rebates range between $250 – $500, making it financially viable for properties to upgrade their existing infrastructure or install new ones.
4. In certain territories, like those covered by MCE, rebates can go as high as $3,000 for the purchase and setup of qualifying Level 2 EV charging stations at multi-unit dwellings (MUDs) and workplace settings.
5. PG&E’s unique program?incentivizes the addition of electric vehicle chargers in parking lots by offering financial support tailored specifically to alleviate installation costs.
6. Local utility companies often have their own rebate programs or incentives designed to encourage the adoption of EV chargers in commercial buildings. Researching local options can uncover more opportunities for savings.
7. Workplace EV charging station rebates enhance employee satisfaction by providing convenient charging solutions while also qualifying for financial incentives.
8. Parking lot EV charger installation incentives aim at transforming large-scale parking areas into electric vehicle-friendly zones, offering another avenue for property managers to modernize their facilities.

With these varied rebate programs and incentives available, commercial property managers have multiple pathways to reduce the costs associated with installing EV chargers on their properties. Now let’s move on to explore considerations specific to multi-family buildings.

Contact Lightility for EV Charger Installation

Installing EV chargers is a key step toward embracing renewable energy. Each type of charger, from Level 1 to Level 2, offers unique benefits and installation needs. Smart charging technology makes electric vehicle use more efficient for everyone.

Property managers can significantly impact the transition by setting up stations. Let’s power up the future with accessible electric vehicle charging solutions! Contact us today to get started!

FAQs

1. Are all EV chargers compatible with every electric vehicle?

Most electric vehicles are compatible with the common types of chargers, but it’s important to check your vehicle’s specific requirements.

2. How much does it cost to install an EV charger?

The cost of installing an EV charger depends on various factors such as the type of charger, installation complexity, and any necessary electrical upgrades.