In the world of electric vehicles (EVs), businesses are taking a big step toward sustainability by offering onsite charging solutions.
Whether it’s for their fleets or employees, integrating EV chargers onsite is a smart move. Here’s what you need to know to get started with onsite EV charging.
Choosing Your EV Charger
Consider the following to choose the best EV charger for your needs:
Types of vehicles:
- Cars: AC chargers for regular use, occasional DC fast charging.
- Vans: AC chargers for local use, occasional DC fast charging.
- Trucks & Buses: High-capacity DC fast chargers for efficient charging.
- Mixed: A mix of AC and DC chargers to balance needs.
Type of charging:
- AC Charging ($): Slower, ideal for overnight or short-distance fleet charging.
- DC Charging ($$$): Fast, suitable for quick charges, but more expensive.
- Mixed AC & DC ($$): A balance between speed and cost, great for larger fleets.
Management software:
- No Software: Plug and charge with no management
- Fleet Management Software: Monitoring & tracking, load control, fleet tracking
A List of Charger Companies for Onsite Charging
Having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s a handy list of reputable charger companies that can help businesses make the transition to EV charging hassle-free.
- Tesla
- ABB
- Wallbox
- Schneider Electric
- Delta
- Ocular
- KEBA
- Tritium
- Kempower
Residential Vs Commercial EV Chargers
You might be wondering, “What’s the difference between residential and commercial EV chargers?” Here are the differences to help you choose the right fit for your needs.
But the short of it is: onsite chargers, especially if they’ll be placed in public places, are much more powerful, and offer a faster charge. They also require a bigger upfront cost.
| Aspect | Residential EV Chargers | Commercial EV Chargers |
| Primary Use | Homeowners and Individuals | Businesses, Fleets, Public |
| Power Output (kW) | 3 – 7.4 kW | 22 kW – 350 kW or higher |
| Charging Speed | 15- 50km of range/hour | Rapid charging, hundreds of km/hour possible |
| Installation | Typically simple, garage/driveway installation | Requires more planning, often in parking lots and public locations with the help of an electrician. |
| Cost | More affordable upfront | Higher initial cost, cost-effective for high-demand situations |
How Fast Do You Need to Charge?
One of the key considerations for the type of charger you need is how fast you want to charge.
- Daily Commuting:
For everyday use and overnight charging, residential chargers (3-7.4 kW) are suitable, adding approximately 16-48 kilometres of range per hour. - Longer Trips:
Commercial chargers (22-350 kW or higher) are designed for rapid charging, adding hundreds of kilometres of range in an hour, ideal for quick top-ups during longer journeys. - Balancing Speed and Cost:
Mixed fleets may use a mix of residential and commercial chargers to balance speed and cost, accommodating various EV needs.
TLDR: Your charging speed should match your usage, whether it’s daily commuting or long trips, ensuring an efficient EV charging experience.
Cost to Install an EV Charging Station
Budgeting is a crucial aspect of any business decision. Here are the cost considerations of installing EV chargers onsite, so you can plan your finances accordingly.
| Aspect | Public AC EV Chargers | Public DC EV Chargers |
| Installation Cost | From $6,000 | From $15,000-$60,000 |
| Location Types | Workplaces, car parks, shopping centres, councils | Workplaces, car parks, shopping centres, councils |
| Hardware Costs | Single-port: $1950-$3000 | $40,000-$100,000 per station |
| Preferred Connection Type | Type 2 Socket systems for open-access | CHAdeMO, CCS, Tesla for DC fast charge |
| Additional Costs | Possible costs for Ethernet or 4G connectivity | Increased labour time |
Charger Placement Considerations
Where you place your charger matters.
- Easy to Reach:
Put chargers where people can get to them easily, like workplace car parks or nearby parking lots. - Marked Parking:
Make sure charging spots are easy to see and have clear signs. - Power Nearby:
Keep chargers close to where there is existing electricity to save money on setup. - Considering Charger Side:
Some car chargers are on opposite sides, which can make for awkward charging angles. - Fast Where Needed:
Put fast chargers where lots of people stop for a quick charge, and slower ones where cars can stay longer. - Plan for More:
Think about where you’ll add more chargers in the future as more people use them. - Stay Safe:
Put chargers in well-lit and safe places, and follow the rules for safety.
What Other Businesses Are Using to Charge Their Fleets
- IKEA: Ocular IQ Commercial Unit
- OPTUS: Ocular iQ Wallbox + Exploren (charging management software)
- Disney Studios: Ocular iQ Wallbox + Exploren (charging management software)
- Transport NSW: EO Genius Chargers
- BP (bp pulse)
Commercial EV Charger FAQS
Can I install a commercial EV charger?
Anyone can install a commercial EV charger if they have the space, but it requires planning, and often electrical upgrades. In terms of accrual installation, you’ll need a qualified electrician to do that.
Do you need a permit to install an EV charger?
No special permit is required to install an EV charger.
What power does a commercial EV charger need?
Commercial EV chargers vary in power, typically from 22 kW to 350 kW or higher, depending on the charging speed required.
What’s the best EV commercial charger?
The best commercial EV charger depends on your specific needs and usage. However, Ocular seems to be a popular brand amongst many Australian businesses.