Going Green: What You Need To Know About Installing Level 2 & Level 3 Chargers On Your Multi-tenant Property
The Growing Need for EV Chargers in Apartment Buildings
As more and more people switch to electric vehicles (EVs), the need for charging infrastructure has become increasingly urgent. While many EV owners have access to charging stations at work or public locations, there must be charging options for apartment dwellers for EV adoption. According to a recent report, over 80% of EV owners charge their cars at home, but this can be a significant challenge for those who live in apartment buildings. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and challenges of installing EV chargers in apartment buildings and guide apartment building owners looking to switch to green energy.
The Value of Installing EV Chargers in Apartment Buildings
Installing EV chargers in apartment buildings is not only an environmentally responsible decision, but it's also a smart business move. By providing charging infrastructure for tenants with EVs, apartment building owners can attract a growing market of environmentally conscious renters and increase the value of their properties. In addition, installing EV chargers can help apartment building owners meet new regulatory requirements and position themselves as leaders in sustainability. In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of installing both Level 2 and Level 3 EV chargers in apartment buildings and guide how to make the process as smooth as possible.
Meeting Tenant Needs
Property managers can meet the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure among tenants by installing EV chargers in apartment buildings. According to a recent National Multifamily Housing Council survey, 82% of renters would be more likely to choose an apartment building with EV charging stations, and 75% would be willing to pay more for such amenities. In addition, by providing EV charging, property managers can attract and retain environmentally conscious tenants and improve overall tenant satisfaction.
Enhancing Property Value
Installing EV chargers in an apartment building can also enhance the property's value and marketability. As EV adoption continues to grow, the availability of charging infrastructure will become an increasingly important factor in real estate transactions. Property managers can differentiate their building from competitors by investing in EV chargers and appealing to a broader range of prospective tenants.
Contributing to Sustainability Goals
By promoting EV adoption and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, installing EV chargers can also help property managers meet their sustainability goals. EV adoption is essential for buildings pursuing green building certifications, such as LEED or Energy Star. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting clean energy, EV chargers can help buildings achieve higher certification levels and improve their overall sustainability performance.
Cost Savings and Revenue Generation
Installing EV chargers can also provide property managers with cost savings and revenue generation opportunities. By offering EV charging services to tenants and the public, property managers can generate revenue through charging fees or by negotiating with charging network operators. In addition, some utilities offer rebates and incentives for installing EV chargers, which can help offset installation costs and provide long-term cost savings. Property managers can also minimize peak demand charges and reduce overall energy costs by carefully managing EV charging infrastructure and usage.
Installing EV Chargers in an Apartment Building
Assessing Charging Needs
Before installing EV chargers in an apartment building, the property should assess the charging needs of its tenants. A great start would be surveying tenants to determine the number of EV drivers in the building, their charging habits, and the types of EVs they own. It's also important to consider the building's electrical capacity and whether the property will need any upgrades to support EV charging infrastructure.
Choosing Charger Types and Locations
Property managers can determine the appropriate types and locations of EV chargers to install based on the assessment of charging needs. Level 2 chargers are typically the most cost-effective option for apartment buildings, as they can provide a full charge in 4-6 hours and support multiple EVs simultaneously. Level 3 chargers, while more expensive, can provide a full charge in under an hour and be useful for buildings with a high volume of EV traffic.
When choosing charger locations, the property should consider factors such as accessibility, visibility, and safety. Chargers should be located in well-lit and secure areas and should be easily accessible to tenants and visitors.
Working with Contractors and Electricians
Installing EV chargers in an apartment building typically requires the services of experienced contractors and electricians. In addition, property managers should work with reputable professionals familiar with the installation process and local building codes. Finally, obtaining all necessary permits and approvals is vital before installation begins.
Managing Charging Infrastructure
Installation of the EV Chargers can take anywhere between a day and a few weeks. Once completed, the property should implement a plan for managing charging infrastructure and usage. This plan can involve setting charging fees, monitoring usage, and ensuring that chargers are appropriately maintained and repaired when needed. Property managers may also need to coordinate with charging network operators to enable access for non-tenant EV drivers.
Maintaining and Optimizing EV Charging Infrastructure
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
The property should implement a regular maintenance and inspection plan to ensure the ongoing functionality and safety of EV charging infrastructure. This plan can involve routine visual inspections of chargers and wiring and more in-depth testing and maintenance by experienced electricians. It's also vital to keep chargers clean and debris-free and replace damaged components.
Monitoring Energy Usage and Costs
EV charging can significantly impact a building's energy usage and costs, so property managers must monitor usage and implement strategies for reducing costs. These strategies can involve implementing time-of-use pricing, which charges more for charging during peak energy usage times or implementing demand response programs, which incentivize tenants to reduce their energy usage during periods of high demand. Property managers can also consider installing solar panels or other renewable energy sources to offset the energy usage of EV charging.
Upgrading and Expanding Charging Infrastructure
As the popularity of EVs continues to grow, apartment buildings need to stay up-to-date with the latest charging technology and infrastructure. You need to ensure you know what goes into upgrading existing chargers to newer models or expanding the number of chargers to accommodate growing EV drivers. Property managers should stay informed about industry developments and work with experienced contractors and electricians to plan for and implement any necessary upgrades or expansions.
Providing Education and Support to Tenants
Finally, property managers should educate and support tenants to ensure they understand how to use and maintain EV chargers properly. Start by providing instructional materials, hosting informational sessions, or working with EV manufacturers to provide training and support. By empowering tenants with knowledge and resources, property managers can help to ensure the ongoing success and sustainability of EV charging infrastructure in their apartment buildings.
Conclusion
By installing Level 2 and Level 3 EV chargers in apartment buildings, property managers can help meet the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure while improving the sustainability and appeal of their properties. With careful planning, installation, and management, EV charging infrastructure can provide various benefits for apartment buildings and their tenants, from reduced carbon emissions to increased property value. In addition, property managers can position their buildings for success in a rapidly changing energy landscape by staying informed and proactive about EV charging infrastructure.