As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates, businesses across industries are recognizing the strategic value of installing EV charging stations. Whether you’re a commercial property owner, fleet operator, or retail business, a well-designed EV charging infrastructure not only meets sustainability goals but also drives customer traffic, enhances employee satisfaction, and opens new revenue streams.
Below are the key considerations every business should address when planning EV charging station design:
1. Understand Your User Base
Before diving into design, identify who will be using the chargers:
Employees (longer dwell times, L2 chargers preferred)
Customers (quick access, short stops then DC fast charging might be ideal)
Fleet vehicles (predictable schedules, efficiency-focused design)
Tailoring charger types and layout to user behavior helps avoid overdesign or underutilization.
2. Choose the Right Charging Level
There are three primary charging levels:
Level 1 (120V): Very slow, rarely used for commercial installations.
Level 2 (240V): Ideal for workplaces and retail locations; offers 10–60 miles of range per hour.
Level 3/DC Fast Charging: Best for highways or high-traffic commercial hubs; delivers 60–200+ miles of range in 20–30 minutes.
Your choice should align with expected usage patterns, power availability, and budget.
3. Plan for Future Expansion
EV demand is growing exponentially. Future-proof your design by:
Installing extra conduits during initial construction
Using modular charger infrastructure
Allowing space for additional stalls and electrical capacity
This foresight minimizes disruption and cost down the line.
4. Evaluate Electrical Capacity
Your existing infrastructure may not be able to handle the added load. Work with an electrical engineer to:
Assess panel and transformer capacity
Coordinate with the local utility
Determine if upgrades or load management solutions (e.g., smart charging) are necessary
5. Location, Accessibility & Compliance
Charger placement impacts usability and compliance:
Ensure ADA accessibility
Position chargers near building entrances or high-visibility areas
Consider cable management and lighting for safety
Plan for signage, striping, and wayfinding
6. Connectivity and Network Features
Smart charging networks offer:
Usage tracking and analytics
Payment processing
Remote diagnostics and uptime monitoring
These features enable better management and monetization of your charging stations.
7. Permitting and Utility Coordination
EV charger projects require coordination with:
Local permitting authorities
AHJs (Authority Having Jurisdiction)
Utility companies (for service upgrades, metering, or incentives)
Starting this process early helps avoid delays.
8. Rebates and Incentives
Local, state, and federal programs often offer significant rebates for EV infrastructure. An experienced consultant or engineering firm can help you:
Identify available incentives
Maximize your rebate package
Navigate utility incentive programs
9. Construction Considerations
Beyond electrical, other construction components include:
Trenching and conduit runs
Concrete pads or bollards
Signage and pavement markings
Engaging experienced contractors ensures the installation meets code and user needs.
10. Maintenance & Operations Plan
Just like any other business asset, EV chargers require ongoing support:
Define a maintenance plan
Set response protocols for outages
Schedule software updates if networked
Proactive maintenance maximizes uptime and user satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Installing EV charging stations is more than a green initiative and it’s a smart business move. By considering user behavior, power requirements, compliance, and future scalability, you can develop a robust, cost-effective EV charging solution that aligns with your business goals.
Need help designing or engineering your EV charging station?
Our team specializes in turnkey EV infrastructure planning, permitting, and utility coordination. Contact us today for a consultation.
