As trends shift toward more environmentally conscious modes of transportation, it is no surprise that those with a bit more disposable income tend to drive electric vehicles (EVs).
Motor and Wheels reports most EV owners in the U.S. are middle-aged, affluent men. Specifically, 75% of EV owners are male, with 53.6% aged 55 and older, and 57% earning more than $100,000 per year. As a result, there is a strong correlation between higher income levels and the likelihood of owning an EV. The diversity of EV types continues to expand, and is no longer limited to sports-car styles or small hatchbacks—providing a wide swath of choices for all drivers.
For property owners and managers of condominium complexes, it makes sense to provide EV charging solutions for condo owners, especially as EV ownership continues to rise.
Providing EV Charging Options can Raise Property Value
Adding EV charging solutions for condos enhances property value in the eyes of potential buyers. It is also appreciated by existing condo owners who also own EVs. And it may provide a positive cash flow for the property owners when managed properly. So why not bring it in?
There are various strategies for providing EV charging services for condo owners, which include self-serve and enhanced valet services. All of these services can help properties make additional revenue through charging and may even help get extra subsidies through their state of residence.
This overview covers the considerations for installing, operating, monetizing, and maintaining EV charging solutions with an emphasis on successful projects for EV charging in Oregon, opportunities for EV charging in Washington, and challenges encountered for EV charging in Alaska.
What are the EV Charging Solutions for Condominium Complexes?
First, consider what kind of EV charging you want to provide. There’s the simple self-service recharge stations, individual installations for owners, or rapid EV charging through enhanced valet services. The latter is provided as a luxury service, similar to condominium complexes that offer car washing and detailing.
There’s also the option of providing a mix of each kind, such as a number of self-charging stations alongside recharging using the valet service. One advantage to having valet involvement is the ability to move the vehicles when the recharging is complete. Through client services management software, you can manage charging appointments and notify clients when their vehicles are ready.
Configuration of EV charging stations
Here are just some of the logistics and spatial details to consider when looking at installing EV charging stations at a condominium complex:
Individual use: These individual-use EV charging stations are installed in the assigned parking lot spaces for the exclusive use of the condo owner.
Self-service: For self-service, there needs to be enough EV charging stations to meet demand that are in convenient parts of the parking area. These may be slow charging (overnight), fast charging (under one hour), and super-fast charging (20 minutes).
Valet service: The valet service may benefit from mobile charging stations that move to where the vehicle is parked. System management software handles the recharging priorities in alignment with when the vehicle needs to be ready to go.
Combination: Offering self-service and valet service gives the clients the choice. Consider fast charging stations for self-service.
Electrical Demands for EV charging stations
On top of the type of EV charging service, there is also the speed and voltage to take into account. Level 1 is the basic charging option that comes with most vehicles, but many businesses can offer Level 2 charging. Below are the recharge times and voltage for each level of EV charging.
Level | Feature | Time | Voltage | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Level 1 | Slow | Up to 12 hours | 120V AC | 1.2 to 1.4 kW |
Level 2 | Fast | Up to one hour | 240V AC | 3.3 to 19.2 kW |
Level 3 | Ultra-Fast | Four to 20 minutes | 480V AC | 50 to 350 kW |
Source - Analysis - How Demand Charges Impact Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Infrastructure - Great Plains Institute (betterenergy.org)
Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations connect the vehicle to the electrical grid or bulk power storage. Level 3 is ultra-fast. It uses direct current fast charging (DCFC).
EV Charging for Oregon Condos
In the state of Oregon, Public Law states that condominium associations must navigate specific legal requirements and ensure proper approvals are obtained before proceeding with installations.
Oregon specific challenges
Infrastructure: Older condominium buildings may lack the necessary electrical infrastructure to support multiple EV charging stations.
Legal compliance: EV charging installations cannot materially reduce or eliminate the use or enjoyment of common elements by other condominium residents.
Technical challenges: Implementing load-sharing technology and using smart chargers can help manage the demand on the electrical system.
Experts at NetZero Energy can help you mitigate these challenges especially if you are considering installing multiple EV charging stations for a potential business.
EV Charging for Washington Condos
Washington state law requires that condominium associations cannot unreasonably restrict the installation of EV charging stations. However, associations can impose reasonable restrictions and require unit owners who wish to install a charging station to apply for approval, adhere to safety and architectural standards, and cover associated costs and increased insurance premiums.
EV Charging for Alaska Condos
The main challenges in Alaska are the severe weather and the lack of sufficient grid capacity. Limited space and outdated electrical infrastructure can pose significant hurdles. Managing access, payment, and maintenance of the charging stations requires a well-planned strategy to ensure efficient use and avoid resident conflicts.
NetZero Energy Provides Solutions for EV Charging Challenges
When it comes to installing EV charging stations at a condominium complex, there may be multiple stakeholders involved in the approval process. Some of the more common ones include the property owner, condominium complex manager, board of the COA, EV owners, electricians, local code enforcement/permit authorities, and even your electric utility provider.
For those committed to bringing EV options to the forefront at their business, NetZero Energy experts can guide you through the installation and approval process.