How to Buy an EV Charging Station: A Step-by-Step Guide for Businesses
Updated
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About Author
Alex has spent his entire career, in solar energy. In his current role at SunGreen, Alex oversees the design and optimization of systems to ensure they fit customer needs and maximize return on investment. Alex loves the technical aspects of solar energy production and is also well-versed in Federal, state, and utility-level policies regarding renewable energy. Alex is also a regular panel member in various industry webinars.
Find out how Sungreen can help your company avoid high demand charges.
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction, businesses of all sizes are recognizing the value of installing EV charging stations. Whether you run a corporate office, retail center, or multi-family property, adding EV chargers is more than just an environmentally conscious move — it’s a smart business decision that attracts customers, supports employees, and can even unlock new revenue streams.
But buying and installing a commercial EV charging station isn’t as simple as purchasing the first charger you find online. There are important factors to consider — from selecting the right charger type to understanding installation requirements and navigating permits. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, helping you make the right decisions for your business.
Key Takeaways from this article:
Choosing the right EV charging station depends on your business type, expected usage, and available electrical infrastructure.
Level 2 chargers are the most popular choice for businesses, offering a balance between cost and charging speed.
Federal and state incentives — like tax credits and utility rebates — can significantly reduce installation costs.
Permits and ADA compliance are critical factors, especially for California businesses.
Partnering with an experienced provider like SunGreen Systems ensures a smooth installation process and long-term success.
Step 1: Research If an EV Charging Station Is Right for Your Business
Before making any decisions, it’s essential to determine whether an EV charging station aligns with your business goals and property capabilities. Start by evaluating the potential benefits and identifying the needs of your stakeholders — employees, customers, or tenants.
For office buildings and corporate campuses, EV chargers are often seen as an attractive perk, boosting employee satisfaction and demonstrating a commitment to sustainability. Retail businesses can use EV charging as a customer magnet, encouraging drivers to spend more time (and money) at their stores while their vehicles charge.
In multi-family housing or apartment complexes, EV charging stations are quickly becoming a necessity. As more residents purchase electric vehicles, the demand for accessible charging solutions grows — and properties without them may fall behind competitors.
Assessing Demand:
Understanding current and future demand is key. Conduct informal surveys among employees, tenants, or customers to gauge interest. Also, consider the long-term — EV adoption is accelerating, and installing chargers now can future-proof your property.
Step 2: Learn About Different Types of Commercial EV Charging Stations
Not all EV chargers are created equal. There are three main types of EV charging stations, each serving different use cases and user needs. Choosing the right one for your business depends on how drivers will use the chargers and how quickly you want vehicles to charge.
Level 1 Charging: Slow but Simple
Level 1 chargers use a standard 120-volt outlet — essentially the same outlet you’d use for a household appliance. While these are the most affordable option, they’re also the slowest, adding about 4-5 miles of range per hour. Level 1 chargers are typically not ideal for commercial settings, but they can be a low-cost solution for places where vehicles will remain parked for long periods, like overnight parking at apartment complexes.
Level 2 Charging: The Sweet Spot for Most Businesses
Level 2 chargers use a 240-volt power source and offer significantly faster charging speeds, adding about 25 miles of range per hour. For workplaces, retail centers, and multi-family housing, Level 2 chargers strike the perfect balance between speed and cost. They’re well-suited for employees charging during an eight-hour workday or shoppers spending a couple of hours at a retail center.
SunGreen Systems specializes in Level 2 chargers - providing businesses with reliable, user-friendly charging solutions that balance performance and affordability.
Level 3 Charging (DC Fast Charging): Rapid Refueling
Also known as DC Fast Chargers, Level 3 stations are the quickest option available, capable of charging most EVs to 80% in 20-30 minutes. However, they require significant electrical infrastructure and come with a much higher price tag. These chargers are best suited for locations where fast turnarounds are essential — like highway rest stops, logistics hubs, or fleet operations.
Step 3: Understand Installation, Permits, and Costs
Installing an EV charging station involves more than simply mounting a charger on a wall. It’s a multi-step process that includes electrical assessments, trenching, permitting, and in some cases, utility upgrades.
Electrical Infrastructure Evaluation
The first step in the installation process is evaluating your property’s electrical capacity. If you’re only adding a few Level 2 chargers, your existing infrastructure may suffice. But if you plan to install multiple chargers — or DC Fast Chargers — you may need to upgrade your electrical service.
Permitting and ADA Compliance
Permits are required for most commercial EV charging installations, and regulations vary depending on your city and state. In California, for example, cities may require specific accessibility features to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This might include installing chargers in van-accessible spots or ensuring pathways from chargers to building entrances are accessible.
Permitting timelines can vary. In areas with streamlined processes, approvals may come within weeks, while more complex installations can take months. Utilities often play a role, particularly when service upgrades are necessary.
Installation Costs
The cost of installing EV charging stations depends on several factors, including the type of charger, the complexity of the installation, and local permitting fees.
Level 2 Charger:
• Equipment Cost: $3,000 - $7,000 per unit
• Installation Cost: $5,000 - $15,000 (varies based on electrical needs and site layout)
• DC Fast Charger:
• Equipment Cost: $30,000 - $70,000 per unit
• Installation Cost: $40,000 - $100,000 (due to higher power requirements and utility upgrades)
Pro Tip: Bundling EV charger installation with other projects (like solar carports or parking lot repaving) can help lower costs by sharing trenching and infrastructure expenses.
Step 4: Explore Incentives and Tax Credits
One of the biggest advantages of installing EV chargers is the availability of federal, state, and local incentives that can significantly offset installation costs.
Federal Tax Credits
The Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit allows businesses to claim 30% of the cost of EV charger installation (up to $30,000 per location). This incentive alone can reduce upfront costs substantially.
California State Incentives
In California, programs like Southern California Edison’s Charge Ready Program can cover infrastructure costs, leaving businesses responsible only for the chargers themselves. Additionally, local governments may offer rebates, grants, or utility bill credits for businesses that install EV charging stations.
Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) Credits
California’s LCFS program allows businesses to earn tradable credits based on the amount of energy dispensed through their EV chargers. These credits can be sold, providing an ongoing revenue stream.
Step 5: Decide on Access Control and Payment Options
Once your chargers are installed, you’ll need to determine how they’ll be used and who will have access.
For Private Use (Fleets or Employees):
If the chargers are for fleet vehicles or employees only, you may not need complex access controls. Simple RFID readers or PIN codes can restrict use.
For Public Use:
If your chargers will be accessible to the public, you’ll need a payment system. Many businesses opt for networked charging stations that allow drivers to pay via apps or credit cards. You can set rates based on time, energy usage, or even offer free charging as a customer perk.
Hybrid Access Models:
Some businesses combine public and private use — offering free or discounted charging to employees while charging a fee to visitors. This flexibility can maximize usage and optimize ROI.
Is Your Business in California? Call SunGreen Systems for a Custom Quote
If you’re located in California, you’re in one of the best states for EV charging incentives — but navigating the options can be complex. SunGreen Systems specializes in guiding businesses through the entire process, from initial feasibility studies to installation and maintenance. We can help you maximize available incentives, ensure regulatory compliance, and design a charging solution tailored to your business’s needs.
Ready to future-proof your property and attract EV drivers? Request a free custom EV charging station quote today and let SunGreen Systems help you lead the charge.
