The EV Charging Imperative
Electric vehicle adoption is accelerating rapidly. By 2030, EVs are projected to represent 30-50% of new vehicle sales in most developed markets. This transition creates both an urgent need and a significant opportunity for parking and curb operators.
The key challenge: about 40% of vehicle owners lack access to home charging (apartment dwellers, street parkers). These drivers depend on public and workplace charging—making parking lots, garages, and curbside locations critical infrastructure.
Understanding Charging Levels
Level 1 (120V AC)
Level 2 (240V AC)
DC Fast Charging
Demand Forecasting
Accurately projecting EV charging demand is challenging but essential for right-sizing investments. Key factors to consider:
- Current EV registration rates: Local EV adoption varies significantly by region
- Growth projections: Most markets see 20-30% annual EV sales growth
- User characteristics: Home charging access, commute patterns, dwell times
- Competitive landscape: Existing charging infrastructure in the area
A common rule of thumb: plan for 2-5% of parking spaces to have charging capability now, with infrastructure to scale to 20%+ by 2030.
Site Selection Criteria
Electrical Capacity
Existing transformer/panel capacity, upgrade costs, utility coordination
Location & Access
Visibility, ease of access, proximity to amenities during charge
Dwell Time Match
Charging level should match typical parking duration
Economics
Installation costs, electricity rates, potential revenue
Curbside vs. Off-Street Charging
Curbside Charging
Curbside charging serves residents without private parking and provides convenient "top-up" charging for urban drivers. Challenges include:
- Higher installation costs (trenching, permits)
- Space competition with other curb uses
- Enforcement of time limits and EV-only access
- Vandalism and weather exposure
Off-Street Charging
Parking garages and lots offer advantages for EV charging:
- Controlled access and security
- Easier electrical infrastructure
- Weather protection
- Integration with existing payment systems
Technology and Equipment
Key technology decisions include:
- Network connectivity: Networked chargers enable remote management, payments, and data collection
- Payment integration: Credit card readers, app-based payment, parking system integration
- Load management: Smart systems that balance charging across multiple vehicles
- Future-proofing: Installing conduit and capacity for future expansion
Ownership and Operating Models
Several models exist for EV charging deployment:
- Owner-operated: Site owner installs, owns, and operates chargers
- Turnkey provider: Third party installs, owns, and operates; site provides space and power
- Revenue share: Provider and site owner split charging revenue
- Utility-led: Electric utility installs and operates infrastructure
Implementation Roadmap
- Assessment: Evaluate demand, site conditions, and electrical capacity
- Strategy: Define charging mix, phasing plan, and operating model
- Design: Detailed engineering, utility coordination, permitting
- Procurement: Equipment selection and vendor contracting
- Installation: Construction, testing, and commissioning
- Operations: Launch, monitoring, maintenance, and optimization