Charging Infrastructure for Businesses: How to Set Up Charging Stations for Employees and Customers

Kamilya - January 14, 2025

Switching to electric mobility for your business requires more than just an electric vehicle (EV) fleet. To ensure your vehicles are always charged, you need on-site charging stations and a comprehensive charging infrastructure. Accessible charging points for customers can enhance their experience, allowing them to charge their EVs while conducting business with you.

This article covers more than just planning and setting up a charging infrastructure. It also highlights funding opportunities and outlines the compelling reasons why investing in an in-house charging infrastructure is worthwhile.

Benefits of Charging Infrastructure for Businesses

Adopting an EV fleet positions your company as a sustainable and forward-thinking business. Here are some key benefits:

  • Cost Savings: EVs have lower fuel and maintenance costs compared to combustion vehicles. Savings increase when paired with a company-owned solar panel system to generate affordable solar power. Additionally, installing charging infrastructure may offer tax advantages.

  • Employee Satisfaction: Employees appreciate being able to charge their company vehicles for free during work hours at company-provided charging points.

  • Improved Image: Customers increasingly expect businesses to adopt sustainable practices. An EV fleet with accessible charging points for visitors boosts your company’s eco-friendly reputation.

  • Environmental Regulations: To meet stricter emissions targets and avoid CO₂ levies, companies are incentivized to adopt low-emission fleets and charging infrastructure.

  • Competitiveness: Ensuring your fleet is consistently charged and ready for use requires well-planned charging infrastructure to handle daily charging needs efficiently.

Key Considerations for Planning and Implementing Charging Infrastructure

Once you decide to electrify your company fleet, planning your charging infrastructure is essential. Here's what to consider:

Location and Requirements

  • Identify accessible locations for charging points that won't disrupt daily operations. Existing employee and customer parking spaces are ideal spots for installation.

  • Ensure adequate lighting to facilitate safe use during nighttime.

  • Provide a stable and sufficient power supply for charging stations. If using solar power, consult experts to appropriately size the system.

Costs and Subsidies

Charging infrastructure costs depend on several factors, including:

  • Type of charging station

  • Installation complexity

  • Number of charging points

  • Level of network integration

  • Location

Private charging stations typically cost between CHF 1,000 and CHF 3,000. Fast charging stations are more expensive. Check the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (BFE) or local authorities for potential subsidies, discounts, or grants for business charging infrastructure.

Collaboration with Energy Providers

Contact your local energy provider to explore possible partnerships for setting up charging infrastructure. Many providers offer consultation, suitable charging solutions, and installation support.

Charging Solutions for Different Use Cases

Tailor your charging infrastructure to the needs of different user groups:

For Employees

Install sufficient charging points on your premises to allow employees to charge their electric company vehicles while working. Use a charging management system to optimize usage and billing.

For Fleet Vehicles

Fleet vehicles require accessible charging stations to minimize downtime. Ensure adequate fast-charging points to keep your fleet operational at all times.

For Customers and Visitors

Providing customers with charging stations enhances their experience and improves your brand image. Offer either free charging as a courtesy or implement a billing system for used kilowatt-hours.

Steps to Install Charging Infrastructure

Follow these steps for successful installation:

  1. Assess Needs: Determine the number and type of charging points required based on fleet size and usage frequency.

  2. Choose Locations: Select accessible and power-ready locations.

  3. Explore Funding: Research applicable subsidies and apply for them before investing.

  4. Obtain Permits: Check local regulations for necessary permits, as requirements vary by location and installation type.

Implementation Phase:

  • Technical Specifications: Select appropriate charging devices, ensuring compatibility with AC/DC power types and performance requirements.

  • Installation and Commissioning: Hire certified professionals to install and test the stations, ensuring compliance with safety standards. Regular maintenance ensures reliability.

The Future of Charging Infrastructure in Businesses

Emerging battery technologies and advancements in EVs will influence business charging needs. Key trends include:

  • Infrastructure Expansion: Scale charging stations as fleets grow, ensuring the system can accommodate future needs.

  • Faster Charging: Advances in technology will reduce charging times, increasing fleet availability and efficiency.

  • Renewable Energy Integration: On-site renewable energy sources like solar power offer sustainable and cost-effective solutions for charging needs.

  • Smart Charging Systems: AI-driven systems optimize energy use, reducing costs through automated charging management.

  • Carbon Pricing: Rising costs of emissions and government incentives for sustainable practices will encourage investments in EV technologies.

Conclusion

Electrifying your company fleet requires a robust and scalable charging infrastructure. Pairing this with renewable energy sources like solar panels ensures cost-effective and low-emission operations. Companies like CARIFY offer a wide range of EVs and can assist with all aspects of business electromobility.

FAQs

What does charging infrastructure include?

Charging infrastructure consists of:

  • Charging Stations: AC (standard) or DC (fast) stations

  • Charging Points: Specific outlets compatible with various connector types (e.g., Type 2, CCS)

  • Power Supply: Grid or solar-powered electricity sources

  • Network Management: Software to manage station usage, payments, and access

  • Installation Equipment: Necessary cabling and components to connect stations to the power grid

Who has the largest charging network in Switzerland?

Greenmotion’s evpass network provides the most public charging points in Switzerland.

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